NO-HEADLINE

The offspring of Irish migrants to England and Wales suffer more illness and die sooner than the general population, according to new research which says an unhealthy lifestyle, including excess smoking and drinking, may be to blame. Previous research has shown that first generation Irish immigrants have a death rate which is 30 per cent higher for men, and 20 per cent higher for women, than the average for England and Wales. The fact that their offspring also appear unhealthier than the general population is a cause for concern, according to a paper published today in the British Medical Journal.

Researchers from the Office for National Statistics and the Institute of Public Health, at the University of Surrey in Guildford, conclude: "With over 2 million second generation Irish and growing numbers of a third generation, clearly special consideration should be given to their health."