The Role of Salt in the Fall of Blood Pressure Accompanying Reduction in Obesity

THERE is considerable evidence that the incidence of hypertension is significantly greater among obese adults than among similar nonobese persons.1 , 2 Numerous studies have been published indicating that when weight reduction is brought about in such cases a fall in the elevated blood pressure frequently follows.3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 Although this extensive list suggests a remarkable agreement among observers, at least two authors have expressed doubt that a decline in weight is responsible for a decline in the high blood pressure of obese subjects.14 , 15 For some years one of us (L.K.D.) has been interested in the relation of sodium to the hypertensive process in . . .