Population-based screening for cardiovascular diseases and type 2 diabetes risk among migrant origin and ethnic minority groups in Europe: a scoping review

Although some migrant origin groups in Europe show elevated risk for cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) and type 2 diabetes (T2D), information is sparse and fragmented. This study examines availability and possibilities for harmonization of health examination survey (HES) data on major determinants of CVD and T2D among migrant origin and ethnic minority groups in EU Member states and EU4Health associated countries (Norway, Iceland, Ukraine, Moldova, Montenegro). We conducted a scoping review, following PRISMA-ScR in PubMed and Web of Science, supplemented by targeted grey literature searches of national health institutes, to identify HESs covering core risk factors for CVD and T2D among migrant origin and ethnic minority groups, older than 18 years and living in EU Member states and selected associated countries. Studies were published between 2014 and 2026. Altogether 2537 peer-reviewed records and 348 grey literature reports were screened. Following full-text screening, 57 peer-reviewed papers were included. In total, 24 individual HESs in 10 countries were identified. The majority (n = 38, 67%) of the surveys were conducted in the Netherlands or Sweden. None of the HESs used nationally representative samples, having been conducted regionally. There was notable heterogeneity in how persons with a migration background and ethnic minorities were defined and grouped. Reported risk factors included obesity, hypertension, hypercholesterolemia, and hyperglycemia. Measurement methods of these risk factors varied by the migrant origin group and country where the study was conducted. We did not identify any eligible publications on CVD or T2D risk factors in migrant origin or ethnic minority groups in 69% of EU Member States/selected associated countries, indicating substantial knowledge gaps among these population groups in Europe. The heterogeneity in measurement methods makes cross-country comparison and data harmonization challenging. Data availability and cross-country comparability should be improved to support effective evidence-based health promotion and prevention measures. What is already known on this topic • National health examination surveys (HESs) are important tools for monitoring cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) and type 2 diabetes (T2D). What this study adds • This study identified major gaps in the availability of HES data on measured risk factors for CVD and T2D among migrant origin and ethnic minority groups and indigenous people across EU Member states and selected associated countries. • Major methodological heterogeneity was observed in how migrant origin and ethnic minority groups were defined, as well as in how key CVD and T2D risk factors (obesity, hypertension, hypercholesterolemia, and hyperglycemia) were measured. How this study might affect research, practice or policy • This study underlines the need for nationally representative data, standardized definitions, and uniform methods to support evidence-based policy and practice and enable cross-country comparisons. • Based on our findings, we recommend coordinated guidance at the European level on improving data availability and inclusion of migrant origin and ethnic minority groups and indigenous people in population-based screening initiatives.