A random representative population sample of 1493 individuals (753 males and 740 females), aged 25 to 64 years, was investigated, using standard epidemiologic procedures as part of a program, studying, trends of development and control of cardiovascular diseases. Population awareness of health status and attitudes to preventive efforts and harmful habits were assessed with reference to age and sex. Preventive screenings were considered to be useful by 83% of the males and 88% of the females; these rates were however smaller for young individuals. In groups of older individuals, health self-assessments were less adequate, while willingness to abandon bad habits increased, particularly so in the females, as compared to the males.