The heterogeneity of multivariate risk in different populations was examined based on data from studies representing national samples, cohort studies, and clinical trials. An analysis of these studies was conducted that included both sexes, various risk profiles, and representatives from several nationalities and ethnic groups. The pooled sample involved 20 studies, 233,833 participants, and over 47,000 deaths. Based on a common statistical approach, proportional hazards models were developed for each study to relate a set of essential characteristics to the prediction of CVD mortality. The characteristics included body mass index, age, blood pressure, serum cholesterol, smoking, and diabetes status. The models were then compared in terms of their ability to predict absolute risk of mortality across studies.