Sodium Reduction Program Incorporating Genetic Profile and an AI-Based App: A Randomized Clinical Trial
Koryu Sato1,2, Kosuke Inoue2,3, Taihei Yamaguchi4
1Faculty of Policy Management, Keio University, Kanagawa, Japan.
JAMA Network Open
|October 16, 2025
Summary
A study found that combining genetic profiles with AI apps did not reduce salt intake in adults with high blood pressure. Personalized digital interventions face challenges in promoting dietary behavior change for hypertension management.
Area of Science:
- Cardiovascular Disease Research
- Genetics and Personalized Medicine
- Digital Health Interventions
Background:
- Excessive salt intake is a key risk factor for hypertension and cardiovascular disease.
- Personalized interventions using genetic information and digital tools show potential for sodium reduction but require more evidence.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the effectiveness of a sodium reduction program using a genetic profile and an AI-based mobile app.
- To evaluate this intervention in adults with elevated blood pressure and a sodium-sensitive genotype.
Main Methods:
- A 3-arm randomized clinical trial involving 312 employees aged 20-65 years with elevated blood pressure and the AGT M235T genotype.
- Interventions included a genetic profile with an AI app, no intervention (control), or app-only use.
- Daily salt intake was measured using spot urine samples and the INTERSALT formula.
Main Results:
- No significant difference in daily salt intake was observed between the treatment group and the control group after 3 months.
- The treatment group also showed no significant difference in salt intake compared to the app-only group.
- Secondary outcomes, including blood pressure and behavioral intentions, did not differ significantly between groups.
Conclusions:
- A sodium reduction program combining genetic profiles and AI-based apps did not significantly reduce salt intake in this population.
- These findings suggest challenges in achieving dietary behavior change through combined genetic and digital interventions for hypertension.
- Further research is needed to optimize personalized strategies for sodium reduction and cardiovascular disease prevention.
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