The association between alcohol consumption, social & personal factors, & mortality was studied in 49464 Swedish conscripts in a 20-year follow-up. Suicides & probable suicides were the leading cause of death accounting for 320 deaths. No significant different rate of suicide was found among abstainers compared with moderate drinkers. Risk factors for suicide included the number of friends, contact with police or juvenile authorities, & psychiatric diagnosis at conscription. (37 refs.)