Abstract Objective Since there are almost no data about the perceptions and attitudes of the general public concerning risk factors for cardiovascular diseases (CVD) this survey was performed. Method Face-to-face interviews were conducted based upon a questionnaire with 883 members of the general population from different parts of Croatia in October–November 2008. Results 36.1% of them correctly identified CVD as the leading cause of death but the most feared disease was cancer (40.0%). CVD was on the second place with only 21.6%. 30.9% was aware that elevated LDL-cholesterol increases CVD risk but 49.0% knew that high HDL-cholesterol is beneficial. 43.3% knew their total cholesterol (TC) value and 74.4% knew their blood pressure (BP). 30.9% knew what their target TC should be and 33.9% knew what their target BP should be. The knowledge about TC and BP target values was positively associated with higher educational level. 53.2% of the general public reported that they have never discussed any CVD risk factor with their physician. Conclusion These data suggest insufficient awareness of CVD risk factors in general population and a need for improved promotion of CVD prevention. To achieve this people and physicians should be motivated by the health authorities and/or insurance companies.