540 Cardiovascular Health in Irish- and Non-Irish-Born Populations

Abstract EP2.2, e-Poster Terminal 2, September 3, 2025, 13:05 - 14:00 Aims To compare the prevalence of cardiovascular disease (CVD), demographic characteristics, CVD risk factors and smoking-related behaviours between individuals born in Ireland (IE-born) and those not born in Ireland (non-IE) using nationally representative survey data. Methods Healthy Ireland study data was used, a national population-based survey running since 2015, with a total sample size of 67,325 participants. Country of birth was used to distinguish IE-born from non-IE individuals. Cardiovascular risk factors included smoking status, history of CV conditions, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, and other heart-related conditions. Statistical analyses were conducted to compare demographics, prevalence of risk factors, and smoking behaviours between groups. Results Of the total sample, 12,239 (18%) were non-IE born. This group was more diverse in ethnicity, younger (median age 41 vs 52), and more likely to be under 64 years (91% vs 72%) than IE-born participants (p < 0.001). Health insurance coverage was higher among IE-born (53% vs 40%). CVD was more common in IE-born (3% vs 1%), likely reflecting age differences. Overall, non-IE individuals were less likely to have at least one CVD risk factor (51% vs 56%), though this pattern reversed in those aged ≥80 (79% vs 71%). IE-born participants had higher rates of high cholesterol (12% vs 8%) and high blood pressure (18% vs 12%), while non-IE were more likely to actively smoke (20% vs 17%) (p < 0.001) and less likely to have smoked in the past (32% vs 36%) (p < 0.001). Smoking cessation intentions and engagement with cessation services were similar between groups. Conclusions Non-IE participants in the national survey were younger and showed lower overall cardiovascular risk but higher active smoking rates. Despite these differences, both groups reported comparable use of smoking cessation supports, suggesting equitable service reach. Age and demographic factors should be considered when tailoring public health strategies for immigrant populations.