Identifying High-Priority Populations for Dietary Salt Reduction Using the TARPARE Model: A Cross-Sectional Study

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Social Marketing
• Nutrition Science

Background:

• Social marketing principles are increasingly applied to public health initiatives.
• High salt intake remains a significant public health concern, particularly in rural populations.
• Effective interventions require precise identification of target demographics.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify high-priority population segments for salt reduction interventions.
• To apply the TARPARE model for segment prioritization in a rural Japanese city.
• To guide the development of targeted and efficient public health strategies for reducing salt consumption.

Main Methods:

• A cross-sectional study involving 1874 adults in a rural Japanese city.
• Utilized the TARPARE model (Target, At-Risk, Persuasibility, Accessibility, Resources, Equity) for segment scoring.
• Data collection included spot urine analysis, salt check sheets, and demographic information.

Main Results:

• The TARPARE model successfully prioritized segments based on objective and subjective salt intake, risk factors, and socio-demographic characteristics.
• Women in their 60s and 70s emerged as the highest priority segments.
• Segments with subjective salt restriction but high objective intake indicated a need for focused intervention.

Conclusions:

• The study successfully identified high-priority segments for salt reduction in a rural Japanese setting.
• Findings provide crucial data for designing targeted and resource-efficient public health interventions.
• Prioritization using the TARPARE model enhances the effectiveness of public health campaigns for dietary changes.