ZAGREB, 4 Sept (Hina) - Islanders are slimmer, smoke less and exercise more than mainland Croatians, but still eat too much fast food and too little fruit and vegetables, according to a new study by the Croatian Hypertension League.

The survey shows lower obesity and smoking rates and a higher share of healthy body weight among islanders compared with the rest of the country. The islands also record fewer smokers, the League said, presenting findings from its five-year public health campaign "Hunting the Silent Killer - Health on the Islands".

While islanders are more physically active, the intensity is still insufficient, researchers found. Their diet reflects Mediterranean traditions, with more fish and olive oil, but not enough fruit and vegetables. Consumption of fast food and ready meals matches mainland levels.

"The spirit of the old Mediterranean is still present on our islands, but the ‘silent killer’ is spreading its grip. We must act broadly and persistently if we are to safeguard islanders’ health," the League said.

For the fifth summer in a row, young members of the League travelled to islands with limited healthcare. This year’s campaign ended in late August in Sali on Dugi Otok island, offering free check-ups including blood pressure tests, ECG scans, eye pressure measurements and arterial stiffness readings. Samples were analysed at Zagreb University Hospital Centre, with results sent directly to local doctors.

The initiative also included public education on risk factors, dubbed "demons" by the League, highlighting the importance of a healthy lifestyle, regular use of prescribed medication and proper blood pressure monitoring.

Since its launch, the campaign has reached Vis, Korčula, Hvar, Brač, Žirje, Zlarin, Kaprije, Prvić, Lastovo and Benkovac, screening and advising around 2,000 islanders.

A third element of the campaign focused on gathering health data that, the League says, could help the Health Ministry design prevention programmes and improve healthcare planning.