A Population-Based Study of the Association Between Pathological Gambling and Attempted Suicide

The association between pathological gambling & attempted suicide was examined using data from a prevalence study conducted in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada. 7214 subjects were surveyed using the Diagnostic Interview Schedule, & diagnoses were made on a lifetime basis according to DSM-III criteria. It was determined that a history of pathological gambling is associated with previous attempted suicide, & that the association may be due to a common factor – mental illness. (31 refs)