We have illustrated how cartography can be used in the study of regional mortality. We chose as an example ischaemic heart disease among males aged 30-69 in Norway during the period 1966-87. Choropleth maps (area shading) and circle maps were used to demonstrate regional differences both as regards level of mortality and mortality time trends. A probability map was produced to show the degree of statistical significance for deviation from the national mortality rate. The examples in this study revealed some regional mortality patterns not previously reported. We conclude that mapping is a valuable method in the study of vital statistics