Prevalence Of Problem Gambling Research Articles

Influence of co‐occurring mental and substance use disorders on the prevalence of problem gambling in Canada

Research has shown that problem gambling (PG) is associated with substance use disorders (SUD) and also with other mental disorders (MD). Nevertheless, evidence about the relative contribution of each type of disorder for the risk of gambling in the population is very limited. Study the association of SUD, alone and in combination with MD, with the prevalence and severity of PG. Cross-sectional national survey (Canadian Community Health Survey-Mental Health and Well-Being) data collected through a multi-stage stratified cluster design. Population-based household survey. This analysis includes data on 36 885 participants (99.7% of the survey sample). The prevalence and severity of PG were measured using the Canadian Problem Gambling Index. Prevalence of MD (mood and anxiety disorders) and SUD were defined according to the World Mental Health Survey Initiative Composite International Diagnostic Interview, following definitions of the DSM-IV. Compared to the population, higher prevalence rates of PG are observed when the severity of SUD is higher, but are not impacted by the co-occurrence of MD. For individuals with low risk and moderate risk/problem gambling, the prevalence rate difference (prevalence rate in the subgroup minus prevalence rate in the population) observed among substance dependents was reduced when MD co-occurred (from a prevalence rate difference of 2.5; 99% confidence interval 1.6-3.8 to 1.6; 99% confidence interval 1.2-2.2 for low risk gamblers and from 3.7; 99% confidence interval 1.6-5.5 to 2.9; 99% confidence interval 2.0-4.3 for moderate risk/problem gamblers). Estimates were not statistically different. Prevalence of all levels of PG increased with SUD severity, but the pattern did not appear to be affected by MD co-occurrence. Results suggest particular attention be given to SUD in treatment-seeking clients with co-occurring disorders.

Prevalence of Problem and Pathological Gambling in Parkinson’s Disease

Pathological gambling (PG) has been identified in patients with Parkinson's disease (PD) treated with dopamine agonists suggesting that dysregulation of brain dopaminergic activity may contribute to the development of gambling problems. The current study was undertaken to further establish the prevalence of problem and PG in patients with PD, identify any clinical correlates, and determine if psychiatric or substance use co-morbidity contributes to the increased prevalence of problem and PG. A cross-sectional survey of 140 serially recruited moderate to severe PD patients was undertaken utilizing the Canadian Problem Gambling Index, Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test, Drug Abuse Screening Test, Beck Depression Inventory, Beck Anxiety Inventory, and Mini-Mental State Exam augmented by chart review, completed over an 8 month period. The 12 month prevalence of problem and PG in PD was 9.3% compared to 1.6% in the general population within a comparably aged sample. The increased prevalence of problem and PG in the PD group was related to dopamine agonist use and younger age, but not co-morbidity. Most subjects with problem and PG reported their gambling increased after being diagnosed with PD and starting treatment. The results suggest that brain dopaminergic activity is involved in the underlying neurobiology of problem and PG.

Problem Gambling within the Non-Indigenous Population of the Northern Territory of Australia: A Multivariate Analysis of Risk Factors

This paper estimates, through the use of a telephone survey and the Canadian Problem Gambling Index (CPGI), the prevalence of gambling and problem gambling among the non-indigenous population of the Northern Territory, Australia. Multivariate predictive models of regular and problem gambling group membership were constructed using socio-demographic and gambling mode variables. Of the socio-demographic variables, household type (particularly being single or living in a group household) was a predictor for both gambler types. In addition, male gender and formal education below tertiary level were associated with regular gambling. Gambling mode proved to be of greater explanatory power for both groups. In particular, electronic gaming machines (EGMs) were strongly associated with problem gambling. While these results provide a necessary knowledge base, the gaps they highlight are as valuable as the empirical results they provide. Any comprehensive understanding of risk factors in demographically distinctive jurisdictions such as the Northern Territory requires a broader approach; one that meaningfully extends beyond the non-indigenous population.

Prevalence of pathological gambling in Switzerland: A replication study

This survey aimed to evaluate the prevalence of pathological gambling in the Swiss adult population in 2005 and the link between pathological gambling and alcohol abuse. This replication study made it possible to compare the prevalence rates of pathological gambling measured before and after the introduction of casinos and new preventive legislation in Switzerland.Method:Two thousand eight hundred and three telephone interviews were completed using a standardized assessment instrument for identifying problem and pathological gamblers (SOGS) and alcohol abuse (CAGE).Results:In Switzerland, the past year prevalence rates were 0.8% for problem gambling and 0.5% for pathological gambling in 2005. No relationship was found between alcohol abuse and gambling behaviour. The past-year prevalence of problem and pathological gambling did not change between 1998 and 2005.When comparing the percentage of “ problem gamblers” (levels 2 + 3) who probably have an alcohol problem found in 1998 with that found in 2005, results show a statistically significant difference [χ2=4.1; p<.05]. This important change may be related to the fact that slot machines were then present in public bars where alcohol was more readily available, without the controls of the preventive measures implemented in all Swiss casinos after 2002.Conclusions:Despite widespread openings of casinos in Switzerland since 2002, the prevalence estimates of past-year disordered gambling have remained stable.

A study of South Korean casino employees and gambling problems

Casino employees are exposed to disproportionately high levels of gambling, drinking and smoking compared to other occupations. Because of their occupation, they have the opportunity to detect and prevent pathological gambling (PG). To identify differences in the mental health status and social attitudes towards PG among casino workers in South Korea depending upon whether they report any gambling problems. Data were collected from 388 full-time casino employees. This data provided information about the prevalence of gambling problems, alcohol and tobacco use and depression. Employees were grouped according to their scores on the Korean version of South Oaks Gambling Screen (SOGS), and those employees who gambled without experiencing any gambling problems (Group NP: SOGS = 0) and those who reported any gambling problems (Group P: SOGS > 0) were compared. An exploratory factor analyses identified the domains of casino employee social attitudes towards gambling. Employees who reported gambling problems (Group P) reported a higher prevalence of smoking, alcohol problems and depression (P < 0.01) compared to employees who did not report gambling problems (Group NP). The primary employee social attitude towards gambling was identified by the factor of 'Disease concept/social awareness'. Group NP reported more positive attitudes in this domain than Group P (P < 0.01). Employees who reported any gambling problems reported a less positive attitude towards developing the public health system to be responsive to gambling problems. These findings indicate a need to develop health education programmes that focus more specifically on casino employees with gambling problems.

SOGS and CGPI: Parallel Comparison on a Diverse Population

The Northern Territory of Australia, one of the most demographically and socially diverse jurisdictions in the country, conducted its first population-based gambling and problem gambling prevalence survey in 2005. Both the South Oaks Gambling Screen (SOGS) and the Canadian Problem Gambling Index (CPGI) were administered to the same sample of respondents. Using data from this survey, the current paper presents a parallel comparison of the respective screens with particular reference to gender, region, and the socio-demographic characteristics of respondents. The respective screens produced significantly different groups of problem gamblers as measured by their association with a range of socio-demographic variables. Specifically, the large number of SOGS items related to money issues may cause selective overrepresentation among low socioeconomic groups, including Indigenous people, who exist in relatively high proportions in the Northern Territory. In addition, there existed substantial gender-based differences within screens. Identified female problem gamblers were associated with household level variables (i.e. employment status, household type and marital status), while males were associated with socio-economic variables including language, education, and income. Further research is required to validate the use of problem gambling screens within the Indigenous population and to understand the role of gender in the experience and categorisation of problem gambling.

Preventing the Incidence and Harm of Gambling Problems

An increase in prevalence of problem gambling and gambling-related costs to the individual, family, and community are accompanying the spreading availability of venues in which to gamble. This highlights the need for effective educational programs, media campaigns, consumer protection, and public policy aimed at preventing increased incidence of problematic gambling behavior. This review explores prominent models of prevention including the risk and protective factors model, levels-of-prevention, and the public health perspective and illustrates each model's power to facilitate efforts toward preventing gambling problems. The current state of problem gambling prevention research and practice is delineated and future directions for policy are made. EDITORS' STRATEGIC IMPLICATIONS: Researchers and policymakers will benefit from the review and set of recommendations and also the detailed supplemental online content, in the form of six helpful Appendixes related to gambling prevention resources and materials.

The prevalence of problem gambling among U.S. adolescents and young adults: results from a national survey.

A random telephone survey was conducted with a representative sample of 2,274 U.S. residents aged 14-21. The prevalence of problem gambling, as measured by the SOGS-RA, was 2.1%. Sixty-eight percent (68%) of the respondents had gambled in the past year, and 11% had gambled more often than twice per week. Males had much higher gambling involvement than females, and gambling involvement increased among older respondents. Blacks were less likely than average to have gambled in the past year, but if they gambled, they were more likely to do so frequently. Low SES respondents were less likely to have gambled in the past year, but if they gambled, they were more likely to be problem gamblers. Life transitions that are associated with assuming adult roles (employment, living independently of parents, non-student status) are also associated with greater gambling involvement. The rates of problem and pathological gambling were lower than those in an adult survey conducted earlier, when measured with the same questionnaire.

Adolescent Gambling and Problem Gambling: Does the Total Consumption Model Apply?

This study describes the extent and distribution of gambling among Norwegian adolescents. The study assesses whether gambling frequency and expenditures and prevalence of problem gambling are associated both at the individual and aggregate (school) level, and in particular whether the total consumption model applies to gambling behaviour. Data comprised a national representative sample of 11,637 13- to 19-year-old students in 73 schools (response rate 92.3%). The Lie/Bet Questionnaire and an additional DSM-criterion on chasing the losses were applied to assess problem gambling. A majority (78.5%) had gambled during the last year and 3.1% met all three criteria for problem gambling. Gambling frequency and expenditures were much higher among problem gamblers and increased proportionally with the degree of problem gambling. The 6.1% who scored on both Lie/Bet items accounted for 59% of all gambling expenditures on slot machines. Positive and significant correlations between various indicators of problem gambling and the overall amount of gambling at the aggregate (school) level imply that the higher the overall amount of gambling and gambling expenditures are, the higher the prevalence of problem gambling, which indicates that the total consumption model also applies to gambling behaviour among adolescents.

Epidemiology of Youth Gambling Problems in Canada: A National Prevalence Study

To describe the epidemiology of gambling problems among youth aged 15 to 24 years in Canada and to examine whether these gambling prevalence patterns differ by sex and (or) by geographic region. We used data from The Canadian Community Health Survey: Mental Health and Well-Being. Gambling problems were determined according to the Canadian Problem Gambling Index. All prevalence estimates used appropriate sampling weights and bootstrap variance estimation procedures developed by Statistics Canada. Multivariate logistic regression modelling was also employed to supplement the above prevalence comparisons by age, sex, and region. Among Canadian youth aged 15 to 24 years (n=5666), 61.35% gambled in the past 12 months and the national prevalence of moderate-risk or problem gambling was 2.22% (3.30% in male respondents and 1.10% in female respondents). Male respondents had significantly higher prevalence of gambling problems than female respondents. Regional prevalence estimates of youth moderate-risk or problem gambling were 1.37% in British Columbia, 2.17% in the Prairie provinces, 2.75% in Ontario, 2.12% in Quebec, and 1.71% in the Atlantic provinces. Youth, particularly young men, are at greater risk for gambling problems than adults. More prevention and research efforts are also needed to address the observed sex differences and interregional variability in the prevalence of gambling problems among youth. The national prevalence estimates from this study provide important baseline data against which future cohorts of Canadians can be monitored and measured.

The Proportion of Ontario Gambling Revenue Derived from Problem Gamblers

The proportion of gambling revenue derived from problem gamblers is an important issue when considering the appropriateness of government-sponsored gambling. Figures obtained from prior research are tentative due to methodological problems and the mismatch between reported expenditures and actual gambling revenue. Using improved methods for assessing the prevalence of problem gambling and the accuracy of self-reported gambling expenditures, the present study estimates that the 4.8 percent of problem gamblers in Ontario in 2003 accounted for approximately 36 percent of Ontario gambling revenue. This proportion varied as a function of game type, with a lower proportion for lotteries, instant win tickets, bingo, and raffles, and a higher proportion for horse racing and slot machines.

Mapping the prevalence of problem gambling and its association with treatment accessibility and proximity to gambling venues

This study examined geographic variation in the prevalence of problem gambling in Ontario and the association with various demographic factors and proximity to treatment for problem gambling and gambling venues. Drawing upon multiple sources, secondary data analysis was undertaken based on multivariate statistical methods and techniques of geographic information systems (GIS). Regional variation in prevalence of problem gambling was found in the province. P revalence of problem gambling was associated with many demographic characteristics, as well as mental disorders, co-occurring substance abuse problems, and physical health status. Geographic access to treatment was not associated with the risk of being a problem gambler. However, proximity to gambling venues was marginally important in predicting risk of problem gambling. Results are interpreted in the context of needs-based planning of treatment and prevention programs for problem gambling.

Selling dreams-causing nightmares?

A review of the literature leads to the conclusion that there are no reliable figures on the impact of gambling advertising on the extent of problem gambling. To measure that impact appears as a very difficult research task. However, we can infer that gambling advertising does add to problem gambling, but with a smaller impact than other influential factors. Thus, alarming claims that gambling advertising substantially increases problem gambling and reassuring statements from gambling companies that advertising merely affects market share and has no impact on the prevalence of problem gambling both appear to be erroneous. Gambling providers are advised to avoid publishing advertising that elaborates on features of gambling known to relate to problem gambling. The controversial nature of gambling advertising is illustrated by the case of Sweden, where advertising and its impact on problem gambling have been hotly debated over the past decade.

GPs and Problem Gambling: Can they Help with Identification and Early Intervention?

General Practitioners (GPs) are well placed to identify problem gamblers and provide early intervention. To date there is no evidence to suggest that GP's are routinely screening patients for potential gambling problems. This paper discusses the prevalence of problem gambling, the links with other health problems and ways that GPs can assist. Results from a pilot project that provided educational resources to GPS are also discussed. Suitable screening tools are available that could easily be used by GPs to assess the possibility of gambling problems in patients who may be at increased risk but do not seek help. Early identification and intervention may help prevent a gambling habit escalating to a serious problem. More work needs to be done to increase awareness with GPs of the extent of problem gambling in our community and to alert patients to the fact that gambling can affect their health and that GPs can help.

Pathological and Sub-clinical Problem Gambling in a New Zealand Prison: A Comparison of the Eight and SOGS Gambling Screens

Prison populations have been identified as having elevated levels of problem gambling prevalence, and screening for problem gambling may provide an opportunity to identify and address a behaviour that may otherwise lead to re-offending. A problem gambling screen for this purpose would need to be brief, simple to score, and be able to be administered, with limited training, by prison assessors. The Eight Screen was developed as a brief tool for Family Doctors to use in a patient population, but has also been used effectively in more generalised populations. In this study 100 inmates received into a medium security prison were screened using the Eight screen and the South Oaks Gambling Screen (SOGS), with those scoring three or more on either screen then being assessed by a specialist clinician using DSM-IV Pathological Gambling Disorder criteria. Twenty-nine inmates were screen positives who also correlated highly with assessed gambling pathology. The Eight Screen appears to be a suitable gambling screen for prison use and has since been adopted as an assessment instrument by the New Zealand Department of Corrections.

Beyond drugs and alcohol: Including gambling in a high-risk behavioural framework

Studies throughout North America have suggested that more adolescents are gambling today than in the past. Over the past decade, gambling has become a popular form of entertainment and part of mainstream society. With the increase in gambling availability has come a rise in not only the number of youth who participate in gambling, but also the number who exhibit serious gambling problems. There is growing concern that adolescents and young adults are the highest risk group for problem gambling. The National Research Council, in its critical review of pathological gambling, indicated that the prevalence of problem gambling among adolescents is consistently higher than among adults, despite differences in measurement. Yet, efforts to prevent and treat problems among this population have only recently emerged as an important adolescent health issue. The present article reviews the risk factors, mental health correlates and warning signs of adolescent gambling problems, with the aim of raising awareness among health professionals working with youth of the need to address this issue within their practices.

Problem gambling in bipolar disorder: Results from the Canadian Community Health Survey

Objective This investigation was undertaken to explore the prevalence and associated features of problem gambling amongst individuals with bipolar I disorder. Methods The data for this analysis were procured from the Canadian Community Health Survey: Mental Health and Well-being (CCHS 1.2) conducted by Statistics Canada. Individuals screening positive for a lifetime (World Mental Health- Composite International Diagnostic Interview) WMH-CIDI-defined manic episode (i.e. bipolar I disorder) or depressive episode (i.e. major depressive disorder) and current (i.e. past 12-month) problem gambling were compared to the general population without these disorders. Past year problem gambling was operationalized with the Canadian Problem Gambling Index (CPGI). Results The sample consisted of 36,984 individuals (≥ 15 years old); the weighted prevalence of problem gambling was significantly higher (6.3%) amongst the population with bipolar disorder as compared to the general population (2.0%, p < 0.001) and those with major depressive disorder (2.5%, p < 0.01). Compared to those without bipolar disorder, the odds of problem gambling for bipolar individuals were over twice as high (OR = 2.3; 95% CI 1.4–3.7), even when controlling for potential confounders. Males also had higher odds of problem gambling (OR = 1.8; 95% CI 1.4–2.3), as did individuals without post-secondary education (OR = 1.4; 95% CI 1.1–1.8). Persons who were married/cohabiting had lowered odds of problem gambling, compared with those who were unmarried (OR = 0.6; 95% CI 0.5–0.8). Comorbid alcohol dependence (OR = 3.4; 95% CI 2.3–5.0) and illicit drug dependence (OR = 2.6; 95% CI 1.1–6.2) each conferred an increased risk for problem gambling. Physical activity level (moderate to active) was associated with a decreased risk for problem gambling (OR = 0.8; 95% CI 0.6–0.9). Conclusions Individuals with bipolar I disorder are differentially affected by problem gambling. Opportunistic screening for problem gambling is warranted, particularly in persons with comorbid alcohol or substance dependence.

Prevalence of Adult Problem and Pathological Gambling between 2000 and 2005: An Update

Excessive gambling is a prominent Public Health problem with high prevalence rates in many countries. Substance abuse and other co-morbidities often constitute a major health hazard for the person which gambles with a loss of material and social resources, as well as being a major concern for his or her significant others. The present study updates and extends prevalence data to include work published between 2000 and 2005 in English and other European languages. In a three-step search and exclusion process, studies with current adult prevalence rates were gathered. Almost all studies fulfil basic research standards. The weighted mean prevalence rates for excessive gambling (problem and pathological) are 3.0% for the South Oaks Gambling Survey (problem 1.2%; pathological 1.8%), 3.3% for the Canadian Problem Gambling Index (problem 2.4%; pathological 0.8%) and 3.1% for the DSM-IV (problem 1.9%; pathological 1.2%). The prevalence rates are comparable and relatively stable between countries and across survey instruments, and do not differ from earlier reviews. The regular epidemiological monitoring of excessive gambling remains a major Public Health issue although the distinction between pathological and problem gambling is not appropriate for epidemiological research. Further studies are needed with respect to concomitant lifestyle characteristics.

Measuring Problem Gambling: Assessment of Three Prevalence Screens

Monitoring the prevalence of problem gambling has become a major issue for regulators and policy-makers in several countries as legalised gambling has expanded. However, there has been considerable debate about the definition of problem gambling and the most appropriate ways of measuring it. This paper presents a comparative evaluation of three problem gambling screens: the Victorian Gambling Screen (VGS), the Canadian Problem Gambling Index (CPGI) and the South Oaks Gambling Screen (SOGS, version 5+). Using methods of concurrent validation, the study is based on a population survey of 8479 adult residents in the state of Victoria, Australia. While finding limitations with all three screens, overall the study found that the CPGI demonstrated the best measurement properties of the three gambling instruments. As well as essential questions about screen validity, the paper discusses issues for future consideration in prevalence studies and the measurement of problem gambling in general populations.

Trauma History and Severity of Gambling Involvement among Horse-Race Gamblers in a South African Gambling Setting

The purpose of this study was to ascertain the frequency of gambling involvement and the prevalence of problem gambling among horse race gamblers and to discover whether problem gambling in this sample is associated with a history of trauma. Among a sample of 266 South African horse-race gamblers (94% men and 6% women, Mage 46.8 yr., SD = 13.9, range 18-85 years), 31.2% were classified as probable pathological gamblers and 19.9% with problem gambling. Major weekly gambling activities included racetrack betting (82%), purchase of lottery tickets or scratch tickets (35%), purchase of sports lottery tickets (23%), and using casino type games (18%). Trauma history was significantly associated with gambling severity.