Characteristics of Tobacco-Smoking Problem Gamblers Calling a Gambling Helpline

Problem gamblers reporting daily tobacco smoking more frequently acknowledged depression & suicidality secondary to gambling, gambling-related arrests, alcohol & drug use problems, mental health treatment, & problems with casino slot machine gambling. Data for this analysis was obtained from 1370 calls to a gambling helpline from January 2000-December 2000. 32.4% of current daily smokers reported suicidality compared to 20.1% of never daily smokers. 5.6% of current daily smokers reported a suicide attempt compared to 3.81% of never daily smokers. (29 refs)