The rate, risk, trends, methods & distribution of suicide among persons with AIDS in the USA is described. In 1987 through 1989, a total of 165 suicides occurred among persons with AIDS; all but one case were male. Self-poisoning with drugs was the most common method. Suicide risk for persons with AIDS decreased significantly from 1987 to 1989. It is concluded that persons with AIDS have an increased risk of suicide & the assessment of such risk should be a standard practice in their care.