The problem of combined pathology is discussed as exemplified by multiple causes of death. The structure of multiple causes of death is analyzed on the basis of records on all death cases in the town of Kursk in 1991, a total of 4381. The factors taken into consideration are age, sex, classes and various individual causes of death; the primary cause and complications are considered, including the direct cause of death, and the concomitant conditions. The authors claim that their data is a good scientific basis for planning and organization of specialized care of the population at the present-day stage of Russian public health development.