Physician knowledge of sodium content of common foods

Knowledge of sodium content of common foods was secured from 49 physicians attending a family practice review course, 91 persons attending a health sciences open house, and 6 dieticians. Although physicians reported they commonly provide advice on sodium restriction, their scores (mean, 6.4 of 14 correct) were comparable to those of the general public (6.0). As expected, the dieticians' score (10.3) was higher. No difference in physician score with years of practice experience was detected. Several actions to remedy this apparent deficiency in physician knowledge are suggested.