Mortality rate among heroin addicts 1st addicted from illicit sources approximated 22/1000/yr (nearly 20 times the expected rate & probably higher than among narcotic addicts in the USA). Of 35 deaths among 321 male addicts, 9 (mean age=29.1 yrs) were suicides; 12 (mean age=26.9 yr) were accidental overdoses & 14 (mean age= 36.5 yr) were from other causes. Suicidal impulses often occur during periods of drug withdrawal; 4 addicts died in prison. Suggested treatments for addicts are discussed.