Factors associated with mortality among heroin users after seeking treatment with methadone: A population-based cohort study in Taiwan

Data concerning factors associated with mortality among heroin users under methadone maintenance treatment (MMT) in the Han Chinese population are limited. This study examined mortality risk among heroin users after seeking treatment with methadone in a catchment area using a cohort of 1616 Taiwanese heroin users between October 2006 and December 2008. During the study period, 26 (1.6%) people died, with an all-cause mortality rate per 100 person years of 3.42. The primary cause of death among our patients was accidents, followed by suicide and drug overdose. Older age, HIV infection, psychiatric treatment history, and alcohol abuse/dependence were risk factors for all-cause mortality; remaining on MMT was protective for survival. Our findings suggest that although mortality is mainly associated with medical and psychiatric comorbidities, continuing with the MMT program is still an important predictor for survival.