OBJECTIVES: Current prevalence of cardiovascular risk factors are lacking among Hispanic adults.  This study contributes to our knowledge by examining current national estimates for hypertension, high cholesterol, diabetes and obesity among Hispanic and non-Hispanic white adults aged 20 years and older, by gender and age group. METHODS: Cross-sectional observational study design.  Analysis of adults 20 years and older surveyed in the Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS) 2007 (Hispanic=26,254, Non-Hispanic white=332,828) and 2008 (Hispanic=23,325, Non-Hispanic white=320,417). RESULTS: Among Hispanic adults (28.8 million), the age-adjusted prevalence of hypertension is 26%, similar to the 27% prevalence among the 149.5 million white adults. Diabetes is significantly more prevalent among Hispanics (13% vs. 7%).  Hispanic women have nearly twice the rate of diabetes as white women, (13% vs.7%), and Hispanics aged 65 years and older have a significantly higher prevalence of diabetes than older, white adults (30% vs. 17%). High cholesterol is equally prevalent in Hispanic and white adults, 36% and 35%, respectively.  Obesity rates for Hispanic adults aged 20-39, 40-64, and 65+  are 27%, 36%, and 28%, respectively. Obesity rates for non-Hispanic white adults aged 20-39, 40-64, and 65+ are 24%, 29%, and 22%, respectively (p <0.001 for all obesity differences). CONCLUSIONS: Age-adjusted prevalence rates of hypertension and high cholesterol are similar among Hispanic and non-Hispanic white adults.  The prevalence of diabetes and obesity is significantly higher in the Hispanic population, disproportionately affecting women and older adults. Effective approaches are needed to reduce these health disparities.