S51.02 - Prevalence of pathological gambling in Switzerland: A replication study

Abstract

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.