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Prevalence of Problem Gambling: A Meta-analysis of Recent Empirical Research (2016-2022).

Authors :
Gabellini E
Lucchini F
Gattoni ME
Source :
Journal of gambling studies [J Gambl Stud] 2023 Sep; Vol. 39 (3), pp. 1027-1057. Date of Electronic Publication: 2022 Dec 31.
Publication Year :
2023

Abstract

Gambling is widely considered a socially acceptable form of recreation. However, for a small minority of individuals, it can become both addictive and problematic with severe adverse consequences. The aim of this systematic review and meta-analysis is to provide an overview of prevalence studies published between 2016 and the first quarter of 2022 and an updated estimate of problem gambling in the general adult population. A systematic review and a meta-analysis were carried out using academic databases, Internet, and governmental websites. Following this search and utilizing exclusion criteria, 23 studies on adult gambling prevalence were identified, distinguishing between moderate risk/at risk gambling and problem/pathological gambling. This study found a prevalence of moderate risk/at risk gambling to be 2.43% and of problem/pathological gambling to be 1.29% in the adult population. As difficult as it may be to compare studies due to different methodological procedures, cutoffs, and time frames, the present meta-analysis highlights the variations of prevalence across different countries, giving due consideration to the differences between levels of risk and severity. This work intends to provide a starting point for policymakers and academics to fill the gaps on gambling research-more specifically in some countries where the lack of research in this field is evident-and to study the effectiveness of policies implemented to mitigate gambling harm.<br /> (© 2022. The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Springer Science+Business Media, LLC, part of Springer Nature.)

Details

Language :
English
ISSN :
1573-3602
Volume :
39
Issue :
3
Database :
MEDLINE
Journal :
Journal of gambling studies
Publication Type :
Academic Journal
Accession number :
36586057
Full Text :
https://doi.org/10.1007/s10899-022-10180-0