Comorbidity of problem gambling in an Australian substance use treatment population

Benedict Osei Asibey, Ron Strauss, Gilbert Whitton , Elizabeth Conroy

Research output: Other contribution to conferenceAbstractpeer-review

Abstract

Introduction: Despite problem gambling’s potential asso-ciation with substance use treatment outcomes, Australian research on its comorbidity among substance use treat-ment clients is limited. This study aimed to examine theprevalence of gambling comorbidity in an Australian alco-hol and other drugs (AOD) treatment seeking sample andanalyse the performance of brief gambling screeners rela-tive to a validated measure.

Methods: A total of 167 adults receiving AODtreatment were recruited. Problem gambling was assessedusing the validated Problem Gambling Severity Index(PGSI) and two three-item screeners–the Brief BiosocialGambling Screen (BBGS) and Consumption Screen forProblem Gambling. Factors associated with gamblingcomorbidity were assessed using logistic regression. Theclassification accuracy of the brief screeners relative tothe PGSI was assessed by determining sensitivity, speci-ficity, predictive values (positive and negative) and diagnostic efficiency.

Results: 20.8% and 52.8% of 106 past-year gamblersscreened positive on the PGSI for problem and moderate-risk gambling respectively. Gambling comorbidity wasassociated with male gender (adjusted odds ratio [AOR]4.80 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.67–13.78), youngerage (AOR 4.41 95% CI 1.64–11.87), financial strain (AOR1.37 95% CI 1.02–1.83) and high-risk alcohol use (AOR3.44 95% CI 1.12–10.55). The BBGS performed better thanthe Consumption Screen for Problem Gambling in identi-fying problem gamblers (80% vs. 75% sensitivity) andoverall diagnostic accuracy (78.3% vs. 76%).

Discussion and Conclusions: Gambling comorbiditywas common among the recipients of substance use treat-ment with similar risk factors as found in general popula-tion samples. The lack of association between stimulantdrugs and gambling comorbidity requires further investi-gation given these drugs can increase impulsivity, aknown risk factor for problem gambling.

Discussion and Conclusions: Gambling comorbiditywas common among the recipients of substance use treat-ment with similar risk factors as found in general popula-tion samples. The lack of association between stimulantdrugs and gambling comorbidity requires further investi-gation given these drugs can increase impulsivity, aknown risk factor for problem gambling.

Disclosure of Interest Statement: This work was sup-ported in part by seed funding provided by South West-ern Sydney Local Health District Drug Health Services.
Original languageEnglish
PagesS133-S134
Number of pages2
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 02 Nov 2023
EventAPSAD Adelaide 2023 - Adelaide Convention Centre, Adelaide, Australia
Duration: 12 Nov 202315 Nov 2023
https://www.apsadconference.com.au/2023-conference
https://ashm.eventsair.com/QuickEventWebsitePortal/apsad2023/program/Agenda (Program)

Conference

ConferenceAPSAD Adelaide 2023
Abbreviated titleUnity in diversity
Country/TerritoryAustralia
CityAdelaide
Period12/11/2315/11/23
Internet address

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