Gambling disorder and suicide risk: A meta-epidemiology study

This meta-analysis aims to explore the relationship between gambling disorder (GD) and suicide, with a focus on the increased risk of suicidal ideation, suicide attempts, and suicide mortality in GD patients.

We systematically searched PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane databases from inception to March 2025 for observational studies examining the association between GD and suicide risk, using relevant MeSH/keywords. Study quality was assessed via the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale. Data were pooled using random-effects models in STATA 14.0, with results expressed as adjusted odds ratios (ORs) and 95 % confidence intervals (CIs). Subgroup analyses evaluated influences of study design and geographic region.

This meta-analysis included 14 high-quality observational studies, and the results of the meta-analysis were unbiased. Fourteen studies demonstrated significant associations between GD and suicide outcomes: suicidal ideation [OR = 1.58], suicide attempt [OR = 2.91], and suicide mortality [OR = 8.52]. Subgroup analysis by study design showed non-significant risk in case-control studies [OR = 1.59], but significant risk in cross-sectional [OR = 3.31] and cohort studies [OR = 4.10]. Geographically, Asian studies showed non-significant association [OR = 1.13], while significant risks were observed in Europe [OR = 4.38], North America [OR = 2.41] and Oceania [OR = 2.16].

Research shows that gambling disorders are linked to a higher risk of suicide. This association may vary across populations and contexts.