Gambling disorder and suicide risk: A meta-epidemiology study

J Psychiatr Res. 2025 Oct 29;192:312-320. doi: 10.1016/j.jpsychires.2025.10.067. Online ahead of print.

ABSTRACT

OBJECTIVE: 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.

METHODS: 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.

RESULT: 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].

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

PMID:41192390 | DOI:10.1016/j.jpsychires.2025.10.067