The survey was the first special population survey undertaken by the National Center for Health Statistics. The areas sampled included approximately 76 percent of the 1980 population of people of Hispanic origin in the United States. Results showed that the use of preventive health services was predicted more strongly by access to care than by acculturation. In addition, many Hispanics at special risk of disease under-use preventive health services, increasing the likelihood of diagnosis at a later stage of illness. Low-income groups, younger age groups, the less acculturated, those who lack health insurance coverage, those with functional limitations, and those in poorer, perceived health status encounter more barriers than others. The survey also revealed factors related to the abuse of alcohol, marijuana, and cocaine; the use of tobacco; perinatal health; and dental health. Tables and chapter references lists