Epidemiology of problem gambling in Prince Edward Island: a Canadian microcosm?
OBJECTIVE
To gather information that describes the extent of gambling and problem gambling in Prince Edward Island (PEI), to rigorously analyze the relation between gambling activities and problem gambling, to document cognitive and emotional correlates of problem gambling, and to identify an at-risk gambling group.


METHODS
We selected a random, stratified sample (n = 809) to represent the adult population of PEI. We administered both the South Oaks Gambling Screen (SOGS) and an early version of the Canadian Problem Gambling Index (CPGI) to participants who had gambled.


RESULTS
The current rate of problem gambling was 3.1%. Problem gamblers were likely to be under age 30 years, to be single, and to report cognitive, emotional, and substance abuse correlates. Multiple-regression analysis identified a unique and substantial relation between problem gambling and video lottery terminal (VLT) use. We identified a group of at-risk gamblers (scoring 1 or 2 on the SOGS), comprising 14% of the sample.


CONCLUSIONS
Gambling and problem gambling patterns in PEI resemble those in most other provinces. The relation found between problem gambling, VLT use, and cognitive, emotional, and substance use correlates should apply to the greater population as well.
Doiron
J P
JP
Department of Psychology, University of New Brunswick, Fredericton, NB, #45444, E3B 5A3. r741n@unb.ca
Nicki
R M
RM
D000328:Adult; D002170:Canada / Q000453:epidemiology; D002391:Catchment Area, Health; D005260:Female; D005715:Gambling / Q000523:psychology*; D006801:Humans; D007175:Impulsive Behavior / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000453:epidemiology*; D008297:Male; D011159:Population Surveillance; D012959:Socioeconomic Factors