The relation between types and frequency of gambling activities and problem gambling among women in Canada

Canada experienced large-scale growth of the gambling industry during the 1990s. Clinical data have indicated that substantial proportions of people seeking help for gambling problems in Canada are women. A population health model was used to understand the relation between types and frequency of gambling activities and problem gambling among women in Canada.

Data used for the analysis were from the nationally representative Canadian Community Health Survey: Mental Health and Well-Being (CCHS 1.2; n = 10,056, women aged 15 years and older; data collected in 2002).

The types of gambling associated with the highest odds of problem gambling among women in Canada were video lottery terminals (VLTs) outside the casino (OR 2.37 to 53.73; P < 0.01), VLTs inside the casino (OR 2.84 to 36.19; P < 0.001), and other casino games (OR 4.01 to 24.15; P < 0.001).

These observations further our understanding of problem gambling among women in Canada and confirm that problem gambling among women is an important public health concern. Frequent VLT gambling, both outside and inside casinos, and other casino games are associated with the largest odds of problem gambling, which highlights an area of gambling in Canada that needs to be reassessed if problem gambling is to be prevented or reduced. Evidence-based research is necessary to inform healthy public policies on gambling in Canada. Findings from the current research have important research and policy implications.