Prevalence estimates of pathological gambling in Switzerland

Objective: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the prevalence of pathological gambling in the Swiss adult population before the introduction of new forms of gambling, and the link between pathological gambling and alcohol abuse. Method: 2526 telephone interviews were completed using standardized assessment instruments for identifying potential and probable pathological gamblers (SOGS) and alcohol abuse (CAGE). Results: The current prevalence of probable and potential pathological gamblers were estimated to be 0.8% and 2.2%, respectively. The results also show a clear correlation between alcohol abuse and gambling behaviours. Conclusion: For the first time estimations are available of the Swiss prevalence rates of pathological gambling. Considering the link between gambling availability and increases in the prevalence of pathological gambling and the correlation between alcohol abuse and pathological gambling, the implications of these results for the prevention and treatment of this debilitating disorder are discussed.