Problem gambling and its correlates among treatment-seeking opioid users at a tertiary care center: A cross-sectional study
Tathagata Biswas, Pritiman Mishra, Chinu Patra, Biswa R. Mishra, Arpit ParmarABSTRACT
Background:
Gambling is a major public health concern worldwide. Problem gambling refers to excessive gambling behaviors associated with negative health and socioeconomic consequences. Studies have described a strong association between problem gambling and substance use disorders (SUDs), with shared psychosocial and neurobiological vulnerabilities. However, comorbidity research in opioid use disorder (OUD) is limited.
Objectives:
To estimate the burden of problem gambling and its correlates among patients with OUD.
Methods:
This cross-sectional observational study, over one year, included 125 adult men (mean age: 33.7 ± 10.5 years) with OUD seeking treatment at a tertiary-care center. Sociodemographic and clinical variables of the participants were collected using a predetermined structured proforma, and problem gambling was assessed using the South Oaks Gambling Screen (SOGS).
Results:
Overall, 32.8% (n = 41) screened positive for problem gambling, with the majority (n = 33, 80.5%) classifiable as “probable pathological gambling.” Among those with problem gambling, 46.34% (n = 19) reported onset of gambling before 20 years age, and 48.8% (n = 20) were engaged in more than one type of gambling activity. All participants had comorbid nicotine dependence, above 80% had cannabis dependence, and approximately 50% had alcohol dependence. Problem gambling was strongly associated with high-risk sexual behaviors (odds ratio [OR]: 4.8,
Conclusion:
There is a high co-occurrence rate of problem gambling and OUD. The associated factors may help inform clinical management and targeted interventions.