Heart health checks carried out in Cork reveal concerning findings

Recent heart health checks carried out in Cork have revealed concerning findings, with almost one in three participants recording borderline or abnormal ECG results.

Nine people were advised to seek follow-up hospital care, with one patient requiring urgent medical intervention, and nearly half of all blood pressure readings fell outside the normal range.

As part of its commitment to promote heart health, Mater Private Network Cork provided free heart and blood pressure checks to more than 400 people who visited the 50Plus Show in Cork at the end of September.

Over the course of this two-day event, cardiologists and physiologists from Mater Private Network Cork set up a pop-up cardiac screening clinic. Of all those tested, almost one in three were found to have abnormal results.

In total, 145 electrocardiograms (ECGs) were carried out on 101 women and 44 men, with 50 of these showing abnormalities. In most cases, participants were advised to share their ECG reading and consultant review with their GP.

Six people had follow-up care in hospital. One individual, whose ECG was reviewed by Mater Private Cork Cardiologist Dr Mahesh Pauriah, was identified with a particularly concerning issue in need of medical attention and surgical intervention over the following days.

“Identifying problems before they become emergencies can make a profound difference in people’s lives,” said Dr Pauriah.

During the event, 252 blood pressure checks were also conducted, with 117 readings outside the normal range. Many participants were unaware that their blood pressure was elevated, a major risk factor for heart attack and stroke. As high blood pressure often does not present with any symptoms, it is crucial to get it checked regularly to allow for early detection and treatment.

Leandro Brito, Senior Cardiac Physiologist with Mater Private Network Cork, who spearheaded the pop-up screening clinic, said: “High blood pressure often shows no symptoms, which is why these checks are so important. For some people, a simple test like this can be life-changing—giving them peace of mind or the chance to seek treatment early and prevent serious issues. Blood pressure checks can be carried out by your GP and many local pharmacies.”

As part of the event, a team of healthcare professionals from Mater Private Cork shared health advice across a range of conditions, including cardiology and orthopaedics, with people attending the show. 

This community initiative formed part of the hospital’s wider public health drive to promote awareness of risk factors and encourage people to take simple steps to proactively monitor their health and take appropriate action when needed.