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Stefanovics EA, Potenza MN, Tsai J, Pietrzak RH. Prevalence and Clinical Characteristics of Recreational and At-Risk/Problematic Gambling in a National Sample of U.S. Military Veterans. J Gambl Stud 2023; 39:1077-1097. [PMID: 36378356 DOI: 10.1007/s10899-022-10165-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Gambling among U.S. military veterans is common, with more extensive involvement linked to gambling disorder and associated problems. This study examined associations between recreational gambling (RG) and at-risk/problem gambling (ARPG), and clinical measures (psychiatric disorders, substance use), behaviors (suicidality, homelessness, arrests) and functioning in a nationally representative sample of U.S. military veterans. Data were analyzed from 4069 veterans who participated in the National Health and Resilience in Veterans Study. Chi-square tests, analyses of variance (ANOVAs) and logistic regressions were conducted to examine unadjusted and adjusted associations between gambling group status and lifetime and current psychiatric diagnoses and behavioral and functioning measures. A significant minority of U.S. veterans reported gambling, with 27.3% (95% confidence interval [CI] 25.5-29.1%) exhibiting RG and 4.9% (95% CI 4.0-5.9%) screening positive for ARPG. The prevalence of ARPG was higher among younger, non-White, male veterans, while RG was more prevalent among retired veterans and those with higher household incomes relative to non-gambling (NG) individuals. ARPG was associated with greater trauma burden, lifetime and current psychiatric diagnoses, mental health treatment, alcohol and drug use disorders, suicidal ideation, homelessness, arrests, and poorer functioning relative to NG and RG, with stronger magnitude differences relative to NG. RG was associated with substance use disorders and arrest histories relative to NG. Results of the current study provide an up-to-date estimate of the current prevalence of RG and ARPG among U.S. veterans and underscore the importance of routine screening and monitoring of gambling problems, as well as interventions for ARPG in this population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elina A Stefanovics
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA.
- U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs New England Mental Illness Research and Education Clinical Center (MIRECC), VA Connecticut Healthcare System (116A-4), 950 Campbell Avenue, Building 36, West Haven, CT, 06516, USA.
| | - Marc N Potenza
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
- Yale Child Study Center, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA
- Connecticut Mental Health Center, New Haven, CT, USA
- Connecticut Council on Problem Gambling, Wethersfield, CT, USA
- Department of Neuroscience, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA
- Wu Tsai Institute, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Jack Tsai
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
- National Center on Homelessness Among Veterans, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, Tampa, FL, USA
- Department of Management, Policy, and Community Health, School of Public Health, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Robert H Pietrzak
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
- U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs National Center for Posttraumatic Stress Disorder, VA Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, CT, USA
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Abstract
Gambling disorder (GD) is estimated to be experienced by about 0.5% of the adult population in the United States. The etiology of GD is complex and includes genetic and environmental factors. Specific populations appear particularly vulnerable to GD. GD often goes unrecognized and untreated. GD often co-occurs with other conditions, particularly psychiatric disorders. Behavioral interventions are supported in the treatment of GD. No medications have a formal indication for the GD, although clinical trials suggest some may be helpful. Noninvasive neuromodulation is being explored as a possible treatment. Improved identification, prevention, and treatment of GD are warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elina A Stefanovics
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA; U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs New England Mental Illness Research and Education Clinical Center (MIRECC), West Haven, CT, USA
| | - Marc N Potenza
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA; Yale Child Study Center, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA; Connecticut Mental Health Center, New Haven, CT, USA; Connecticut Council on Problem Gambling, Wethersfield, CT, USA; Department of Neuroscience, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA; Wu Tsai Institute, Yale University, New Haven, CT, USA; Division on Addictions Research at Yale, Yale Impulsivity Research Program, Yale Center of Excellence in Gambling Research, Women and Addictions Core of Women's Health Research at Yale, Neuroscience and Child Study, Yale University School of Medicine, 1 Church Street, Room 726, New Haven, CT 06510, USA.
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Garvey Wilson AL, O'Gallagher KG, Liu X, Greenberg JG, Otto JL, Campbell MS, Belsher BE, Evatt DP. Demographic, Behavioral, and Proximal Risk Factors for Gambling Disorder in the US Military. Am J Addict 2021; 30:334-342. [PMID: 33760292 DOI: 10.1111/ajad.13137] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2020] [Revised: 12/06/2020] [Accepted: 12/06/2020] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES To estimate the diagnostic prevalence and incidence of gambling disorder among United States service members and to identify associated risk factors, including demographics, history of mental illness or substance misuse, and proximity to legalized gambling vicinities. METHODS Gambling disorder cases comprised active component Service members who received a pathological or problem gambling diagnosis between October 1, 2005 and September 30, 2015. There were 901 cases (392 incidents) during the study period. Controls were matched on the case military entrance date (N = 43,564). Geospatial distance between gambling venue and military treatment facilities were calculated, then multivariable logistic regression and survival analyses were conducted. RESULTS The 10-year prevalence of gambling disorder was 6.6 per 100,000. Men were 3.5 times more likely than women to receive a gambling disorder diagnosis. Other risk factors included age over 24, Asian or Black race, formerly married, and enlisted rank. The odds of gambling disorder increased with duration and proximity to gambling venues, ranging from 2.0 to 3.9. Service members with prior substance misuse or mental health conditions were 3.9 times and 6.3 times more likely to receive a disordered gambling diagnosis than those without substance misuse or mental illness history, respectively. CONCLUSIONS AND SCIENTIFIC SIGNIFICANCE The results of this study reveal that proximity to gambling venues and slot machines on bases, as well as a history of substance misuse or mental disorders, are important risk factors for gambling disorder in the US military. Department of Defense screening policies that focus on high-risk populations are appropriate. (Am J Addict 2021;00:00-00).
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Affiliation(s)
- Abigail L Garvey Wilson
- Psychological Health Center of Excellence, Defense Health Agency, Silver Spring, Maryland.,Department of Epidemiology, George Washington University, Washington, District of Columbia
| | - Kevin G O'Gallagher
- Psychological Health Center of Excellence, Defense Health Agency, Silver Spring, Maryland
| | - Xian Liu
- Psychological Health Center of Excellence, Defense Health Agency, Silver Spring, Maryland
| | - Jennifer G Greenberg
- Psychological Health Center of Excellence, Defense Health Agency, Silver Spring, Maryland
| | - Jean L Otto
- Psychological Health Center of Excellence, Defense Health Agency, Silver Spring, Maryland.,Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Marjorie S Campbell
- Psychological Health Center of Excellence, Defense Health Agency, Silver Spring, Maryland.,Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Bradley E Belsher
- Psychological Health Center of Excellence, Defense Health Agency, Silver Spring, Maryland.,Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Daniel P Evatt
- Psychological Health Center of Excellence, Defense Health Agency, Silver Spring, Maryland.,Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, Maryland
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Gambling and military Service: Characteristics, comorbidity, and problem severity in an epidemiological sample. Addict Behav 2021; 114:106725. [PMID: 33199103 DOI: 10.1016/j.addbeh.2020.106725] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2020] [Revised: 10/07/2020] [Accepted: 10/28/2020] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Active military members and veterans both show elevated risk of Gambling Disorder. However, research comparing these groups to civilians in epidemiological samples is sparse. There is also some research suggesting that there is a stronger association between military service and poor mental outcomes for women. The current study applies bivariate analyses and generalized linear modelling predicting Problem Gambling Severity Index scores to a representative, complex survey sample of 2176 New Jersey adult residents. The results show that problem gambling scores for past and current military service members were more than double that of the civilian participants after controlling for relevant demographic and behavioral characteristics. Additionally, the relationship between problem gambling scores and military service was significantly stronger for women than men. Bivariate analyses indicated that active military service members scored higher on the Problem Gambling Severity Index, indicated greater weekly participation in online gambling, lottery, electronic gambling machine, and sports betting, and nearly 20 times the rate of suicidal ideation compared with civilians. Additional regression analysis show that among military service members problem gambling scores were associated with suicidal ideation, tobacco use, and substance use problems. The results are discussed in the context of a period of expansion of online gambling opportunities. Constrained options for leisure coupled with the high propensity for risk taking among military service members and the relative ease of concealing online gambling on base may expose military service members to disproportionately higher risk of Gambling Disorder.
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Goodyear-Smith F, Darragh M, Warren J. VeCHAT: a proof-of-concept study on screening and managing veterans. J Prim Health Care 2021; 13:75-83. [PMID: 33785114 DOI: 10.1071/hc20070] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2020] [Accepted: 03/02/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION New Zealand veterans may have complex mental and physical complaints related to multiple exposures to war environments. They are entitled to, but often do not, access a range of physical, mental health and social services funded through Veterans' Affairs New Zealand. eCHAT (electronic Case-finding and Help Assessment Tool) is a self-completed electronic holistic screen for substance misuse, problem gambling, anger control, physical inactivity, depression, anxiety, exposure to abuse; and assesses whether help is wanted for identified issues. AIM A proof-of-concept study was conducted to develop a modified version of eCHAT (VeCHAT) with remote functionality for clinical assessment of mental health and lifestyle issues of contemporary veterans, and assesses acceptability by veterans and Veterans' Affairs staff, and feasibility of implementation. METHODS We used a co-design approach to develop VeCHAT. Veterans' Affairs and service organisations invited veterans to remotely complete VeCHAT and a subsequent short online acceptability survey. Veterans' Affairs medical and case manager staff underwent semi-structured interviews on feasibility and acceptability of VeCHAT use. RESULTS Thirty-four veterans completed VeCHAT. The tool proved acceptable to veterans and Veterans' Affairs staff. Key emergent themes related to tool functionality, design, ways and barriers to use, and suggested improvements. Veterans' Affairs staff considered VeCHAT use to be feasible with much potential. DISCUSSION Capacity of Veterans' Affairs to respond if their engagement with veterans increases and employment of VeCHAT is scaled up, is unknown. Work is needed to assess how introducing VeCHAT as a standard procedure might influence Veterans' Affairs case management processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Felicity Goodyear-Smith
- Department of General Practice and Primary Health Care, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand; and Corresponding author.
| | - Margot Darragh
- Department of General Practice and Primary Health Care, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Jim Warren
- School of Computer Science, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
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Kraus SW, Potenza MN, Ngo T, Pugh K, Bernice K, Shirk SD. Screening for Gambling Disorder in VA Primary Care Behavioral Health: A Pilot Study. Issues Ment Health Nurs 2020; 41:1076-1082. [PMID: 32783750 DOI: 10.1080/01612840.2020.1793249] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
The current pilot study assessed the prevalence of at-risk/problem gambling using the Brief Biosocial Gambling Screen (BBGS) among a sample of U.S. military veterans seeking mental health treatment services in a primary care medical setting at a Veterans Affairs (VA) hospital in the Northeast. Out of the 260 veterans screened, 85 veterans (32.7%) reported gambling behaviors within the past 12 months. No significant differences were found between gambling and non-gambling veterans on demographics, medical, or mental health conditions collected in the study. Among veteran past-year gamblers, five veterans (5.9%) screened positive for at-risk/problem gambling. The estimated prevalence of problem gambling was 1.9% among veterans screened in a primary care behavioral health clinic. Results suggest that self-disclosure of problem gambling among veterans, as well as outreach efforts by VA health care providers, could serve to increase veterans' participation in treatment services for problem gambling. Larger, well-powered studies that examine the utility of the BBGS for detecting problem gambling among military populations are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shane W Kraus
- Department of Psychology, University of Nevada, Las Vegas, Nevada, USA
| | - Marc N Potenza
- Connecticut Council on Problem Gambling, Wethersfield, Connecticut, USA.,Connecticut Mental Health Center, New Haven, Connecticut, USA.,Department of Neuroscience and Child Study Center, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | - Tu Ngo
- Edith Nourse Rogers Memorial Hospital, Bedford, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Kendra Pugh
- VISN 1 New England MIRECC, Edith Nourse Rogers Memorial Hospital, Bedford, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Katarina Bernice
- VISN 1 New England MIRECC, Edith Nourse Rogers Memorial Hospital, Bedford, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Steven D Shirk
- VISN 1 New England MIRECC, Edith Nourse Rogers Memorial Hospital, Bedford, Massachusetts, USA.,University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, Massachusetts, USA
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Cowlishaw S, Metcalf O, Lawrence-Wood E, Little J, Sbisa A, Deans C, O'Donnell M, Sadler N, Van Hooff M, Crozier M, Battersby M, Forbes D, McFarlane AC. Gambling problems among military personnel after deployment. J Psychiatr Res 2020; 131:47-53. [PMID: 32920277 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpsychires.2020.07.035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2020] [Revised: 07/18/2020] [Accepted: 07/25/2020] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
Military and veteran populations may exhibit heightened vulnerability to gambling problems; however, there is scant relevant evidence outside the US, and few studies of transition periods, including return from operational deployment. The aim of this study was thus to highlight the extent, risk-factors, and implications of gambling problems among current members of the Australian Defence Force (ADF) following deployment to the Middle East Area of Operations (MEAO). It involved analyses of data from n = 1324 ADF personnel who deployed between 2010 and 2012, and completed surveys within four months of returning to Australia. The Problem Gambling Severity Index (PGSI) identified Problem Gambling (PG: PGSI ≥5) and At-Risk Gambling (ARG: PGSI 1-4), alongside measures of Depression (PHQ-9), Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PCL-C), alcohol use problems (AUDIT), distress (K10), and post-deployment stressors. Analyses indicated that 7.7% of personnel reported at least some gambling problems post-deployment, including 2.0% that were distinguished by PG, and 5.7% indicating ARG. These figures were comparable to conditions including probable depression and alcohol dependence, while levels of any gambling problems were high relative to harmful drinking. Higher levels were observed among personnel who were aged 18-24, reported 0-4 years of military service, served in the Army, and comprised Non-Commissioned Officers/Other Ranks. There were strong associations with gambling problems and various indicators of mental health and wellbeing, and self-reported post-deployment difficulties. The findings indicate that gambling problems are salient concerns for some Australian military personnel post-deployment, and highlight the need for increased recognition and responses to these problems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sean Cowlishaw
- Phoenix Australia Centre for Posttraumatic Mental Health, Department of Psychiatry, The University of Melbourne, Australia; Population Health Sciences, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, United Kingdom.
| | - Olivia Metcalf
- Phoenix Australia Centre for Posttraumatic Mental Health, Department of Psychiatry, The University of Melbourne, Australia
| | - Ellie Lawrence-Wood
- Phoenix Australia Centre for Posttraumatic Mental Health, Department of Psychiatry, The University of Melbourne, Australia
| | - Jonathon Little
- Phoenix Australia Centre for Posttraumatic Mental Health, Department of Psychiatry, The University of Melbourne, Australia
| | - Alyssa Sbisa
- Phoenix Australia Centre for Posttraumatic Mental Health, Department of Psychiatry, The University of Melbourne, Australia
| | - Carolyn Deans
- Phoenix Australia Centre for Posttraumatic Mental Health, Department of Psychiatry, The University of Melbourne, Australia
| | - Meaghan O'Donnell
- Phoenix Australia Centre for Posttraumatic Mental Health, Department of Psychiatry, The University of Melbourne, Australia
| | - Nicole Sadler
- Phoenix Australia Centre for Posttraumatic Mental Health, Department of Psychiatry, The University of Melbourne, Australia
| | - Miranda Van Hooff
- Australian Centre for Excellence in Posttraumatic Stress, The Road Home, The Hospital Research Foundation, Australia
| | - Matilda Crozier
- Phoenix Australia Centre for Posttraumatic Mental Health, Department of Psychiatry, The University of Melbourne, Australia
| | - Malcolm Battersby
- College of Medicine and Public Health, Flinders University, Australia
| | - David Forbes
- Phoenix Australia Centre for Posttraumatic Mental Health, Department of Psychiatry, The University of Melbourne, Australia
| | - Alexander C McFarlane
- Phoenix Australia Centre for Posttraumatic Mental Health, Department of Psychiatry, The University of Melbourne, Australia; University of Adelaide, Adelaide, Australia
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9
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Sharman S, Butler K, Roberts A. Psychosocial risk factors in disordered gambling: A descriptive systematic overview of vulnerable populations. Addict Behav 2019; 99:106071. [PMID: 31473572 DOI: 10.1016/j.addbeh.2019.106071] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2019] [Revised: 07/29/2019] [Accepted: 07/31/2019] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Gambling is a behaviour engaged in by millions of people worldwide; for some, gambling can become a severely maladaptive behaviour, and previous research has identified a wide range of psychosocial risk factors that can be considered important for the development and maintenance of disordered gambling. Although risk factors have been identified, the homogeneity of risk factors across specific groups thought to be vulnerable to disordered gambling is to date, unexplored. METHODS To address this, the current review sought to conduct a systematic overview of literature relating to seven vulnerable groups: young people and adolescents, older adults, women, veterans, indigenous peoples, prisoners, and low socio-economic/income groups. RESULTS Multiple risk factors associated with disordered gambling were identified; some appeared consistently across most groups, including being male, co-morbid mental and physical health conditions, substance use disorders, accessibility and availability of gambling, form and mode of gambling, and experience of trauma. Further risk factors were identified that were specific to each vulnerable group. CONCLUSION Within the general population, certain groups are more vulnerable to disordered gambling. Although some risk factors are consistent across groups, some risk factors appear to be group specific. It is clear that there is no homogenous pathway in to disordered gambling, and that social, developmental, environmental and demographic characteristics can all interact to influence an individual's relationship with gambling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Steve Sharman
- University of East London School of Psychology, University of East London, Water Lane, Stratford, London E15 4LZ, United Kingdom.
| | - Kevin Butler
- School of Psychology, University of Lincoln, Brayford Pool, Lincoln LN6 7TS, United Kingdom.
| | - Amanda Roberts
- School of Psychology, University of Lincoln, Brayford Pool, Lincoln LN6 7TS, United Kingdom.
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Ronzitti S, Kraus SW, Decker SE, Ashrafioun L. Clinical characteristics of veterans with gambling disorders seeking pain treatment. Addict Behav 2019; 95:160-165. [PMID: 30925440 DOI: 10.1016/j.addbeh.2019.03.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2018] [Revised: 03/11/2019] [Accepted: 03/21/2019] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To examine the relationships between gambling disorder, pain, and suicide attempts among US military veterans using Veterans Health Administration (VHA) pain-related services. METHODS Retrospective cohort analysis of 221,817 veterans using pain services was included in the analysis. First, differences in sociodemographic and clinical characteristics (i.e., psychiatric comorbidities and pain-related variables) were analyzed according to gambling disorder. Second, we performed logistic regression analyses to assess the association between gambling disorder and suicide attempts. RESULTS Female sex, depressive, alcohol, drug and tobacco use disorders are positively associated with gambling disorders, while severe pain score is negatively associated with gambling disorders. Logistic regression analysis showed that gambling disorder diagnosis was associated suicide attempt in veterans who received a visit for pain in VHA in the past year. CONCLUSIONS Our findings suggest that gambling disorder in female veterans and suicide attempts in veterans with gambling disorder should not be underestimated and warrants further consideration. Moreover, the result that veterans with severe pain may be less likely to have a diagnosis of gambling disorder needs to be confirmed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Silvia Ronzitti
- VA Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, CT, USA; Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA.
| | - Shane W Kraus
- VISN 1 New England MIRECC, Edith Nourse Rogers Memorial Veterans Hospital, 200 Spring Road, Building 5, Room 135B, Bedford, MA 01730, United States; University of Massachusetts Medical School, Division of Addiction Psychiatry, 55 Lake Avenue, Worcester, MA 01655, United States
| | - Suzanne E Decker
- VA Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, CT, USA; Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Lisham Ashrafioun
- VA VISN 2 Center of Excellence for Suicide Prevention, Canandaigua VA Medical Center, 400 Fort Hill Avenue, Canandaigua, NY 14424, USA; Department of Psychiatry, University of Rochester Medical Center, 300 Crittenden Blvd., Rochester, NY 14642, USA
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Abstract
Few studies have examined problem gambling among veterans and, of those studies, there are conflicting conclusions surrounding correlates of problem gambling in veterans. Our study aims to assess problem gambling prevalence among veterans using non-Veterans Affairs data and to evaluate correlates of problem gambling among veterans in a general population sample. We obtained a probability sample of adult Massachusetts residents using address based sampling in 2013-2014. Participants completed a questionnaire on demographics, veteran status, and gambling behaviors and motivations. We identified n = 129 problem gamblers from a sample of n = 9578 participants. Of the problem gamblers who had veteran status information, 20.6% were veterans. Due to sample size limitations, we analyzed veteran problem and at-risk gamblers compared to veteran recreational gamblers. Having friends and family members engaged in gambling and engaging in more gambling formats were significantly, positively associated with veteran problem and at-risk gambler status. Participating in raffles in the past year was associated with lower odds of being a veteran problem and at-risk gambler compared to veteran recreational gamblers (OR 0.31, 95% CI 0.18-0.52). These discriminators of at-risk and problem gambling may be useful in developing clinical treatment approaches for veteran problem gamblers. Future studies should focus on changes in the prevalence of veteran problem gambling and additional correlates that may better capture social support domains and gambling activity among veterans.
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Najavits LM, Krinsley K, Waring ME, Gallagher MW, Skidmore C. A Randomized Controlled Trial for Veterans with PTSD and Substance Use Disorder: Creating Change versus Seeking Safety. Subst Use Misuse 2018; 53:1788-1800. [PMID: 29461920 DOI: 10.1080/10826084.2018.1432653] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and substance use disorder (SUD) co-occur in military veterans and other populations. OBJECTIVE To conduct a randomized controlled trial to compare a new past-focused treatment (Creating Change; CC), to a well-established, evidence-based present-focused treatment for PTSD/SUD (Seeking Safety; SS), on symptoms of both disorders. CC guides patients to process the past through exploration of PTSD/SUD life themes and memories whereas SS focuses on coping skills in the present. METHODS Fifty-two male and female veterans with current PTSD/SUD were randomized (n = 26 per treatment) and assessed at baseline, end-of-treatment and 3-month follow-up. They received 17 individual one-hour sessions. RESULTS Intent-to-treat analyses indicated that both conditions improved over time, with no difference between conditions, on PTSD, alcohol use, and drug use (our primary outcomes) as well as mental health symptoms, quality of life, self-efficacy, and SUD cognitions. Effect sizes were medium except for alcohol use, which was large. Change over time reflected improvement from baseline to end-of-treatment, with gains sustained at follow-up, although alcohol use showed continued improvement from end-of-treatment to follow-up. Both treatments evidenced a strong safety profile; and attendance, alliance, and treatment satisfaction were also very strong. Conclusions/importance: CC has promise as a PTSD/SUD therapy with strong public health relevance and the potential to fill important gaps in the field. We used minimal exclusionary criteria to obtain a real-world sample, which was severe-predominantly substance-dependent with chronic PTSD and additional psychiatric diagnoses. Future research is warranted, especially on nonveteran samples and treatment mechanisms of action.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lisa M Najavits
- a Veterans Affairs Boston Healthcare System , Boston , Massachusetts , USA.,b Department of Psychiatry , Boston University School of Medicine , Boston , Massachusetts , USA.,d Center for Healthcare Organization and Implementation Research , Edith Nourse Rogers Memorial Veterans Hospital , Bedford , Massachusetts , USA
| | - Karen Krinsley
- a Veterans Affairs Boston Healthcare System , Boston , Massachusetts , USA
| | - Molly E Waring
- c Departments of Quantitative Health Sciences and Obstetrics & Gynecology , University of Massachusetts Medical School , Worcester , Massachusetts , USA.,d Center for Healthcare Organization and Implementation Research , Edith Nourse Rogers Memorial Veterans Hospital , Bedford , Massachusetts , USA
| | - Matthew W Gallagher
- e Department of Psychology, Texas Institute for Measurement , Evaluation, and Statistics, University of Houston , Houston , Texas , USA
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Dighton G, Roberts E, Hoon AE, Dymond S. Gambling problems and the impact of family in UK armed forces veterans. J Behav Addict 2018; 7:355-365. [PMID: 29739238 PMCID: PMC6174607 DOI: 10.1556/2006.7.2018.25] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Background and aims International evidence indicates elevated problem gambling rates in armed forces veterans compared with the general population. Gambling problems adversely impact one's family, and family-related variables may increase vulnerability to gambling-related harm. Little is known, however, about gambling problems in the United Kingdom (UK) veterans or to what extent family variables, such as parenting history and experience of domestic violence, influence veterans' gambling. Methods We compared veterans (n = 257) and sex- and age-matched controls (n = 514) drawn from the 2007 Adult Psychiatric Morbidity Survey on gambling, financial management, domestic violence, childhood parental presence, and experience of stressful life events. Veterans who left the military before or after 4 years of service were compared. Results Problem gambling was significantly more prevalent in veterans (1.4%) than non-veterans (0.2%), and the impact of gambling problems on the family was specific to male veterans, particularly those who had experienced a traumatic event after the age of 16, and those who were more likely to have been physically attacked by their partner. Overall, this study revealed that the UK armed forces veterans report a higher prevalence rate of problem gambling compared with non-veterans, with potential negative impact on family life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Glen Dighton
- Department of Psychology, Swansea University, Swansea, UK
| | - Elystan Roberts
- Department of Psychology, Swansea University, Swansea, UK,Present address: Bristol Medical School, Bristol University, Bristol, UK
| | - Alice E. Hoon
- Swansea University Medical School, Swansea University, Swansea, UK
| | - Simon Dymond
- Department of Psychology, Swansea University, Swansea, UK,Department of Psychology, Reykjavík University, Reykjavík, Iceland,Corresponding author: Simon Dymond; Department of Psychology, Swansea University, Swansea SA2 8PP, UK; Phone: +44 1792 295602; E-mail:
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Gambling Disorder in Veterans: A Review of the Literature and Implications for Future Research. J Gambl Stud 2018; 34:1205-1239. [PMID: 29427019 DOI: 10.1007/s10899-018-9749-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
To review the scientific literature examining gambling behavior in military veterans in order to summarize factors associated with gambling behavior in this population. Database searches were employed to identify articles specifically examining gambling behavior in military veterans. Cumulative search results identified 52 articles (1983-2017) examining gambling behavior in veteran populations. Articles generally fell into one or more of the following categories: prevalence, psychological profiles and psychiatric comorbidities, treatment evaluations, measurement, and genetic contributions to gambling disorder. Results from reviewed articles are presented and implications for future research discussed. Research to date has provided an excellent foundation to inform potential screening, intervention and research activities going forward. The authors suggest that a public health approach to future research endeavors would strengthen the evidence base regarding gambling in veteran populations and better inform strategies for screening, prevention and treatment.
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Danan ER, Krebs EE, Ensrud K, Koeller E, MacDonald R, Velasquez T, Greer N, Wilt TJ. An Evidence Map of the Women Veterans' Health Research Literature (2008-2015). J Gen Intern Med 2017; 32:1359-1376. [PMID: 28913683 PMCID: PMC5698220 DOI: 10.1007/s11606-017-4152-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2017] [Revised: 06/08/2017] [Accepted: 07/27/2017] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Women comprise a growing proportion of Veterans seeking care at Veterans Affairs (VA) healthcare facilities. VA initiatives have accelerated changes in services for female Veterans, yet the corresponding literature has not been systematically reviewed since 2008. In 2015, VA Women's Health Services and the VA Women's Health Research Network requested an updated literature review to facilitate policy and research planning. METHODS The Minneapolis VA Evidence-based Synthesis Program performed a systematic search of research related to female Veterans' health published from 2008 through 2015. We extracted study characteristics including healthcare topic, design, sample size and proportion female, research setting, and funding source. We created an evidence map by organizing and presenting results within and across healthcare topics, and describing patterns, strengths, and gaps. RESULTS We identified 2276 abstracts and assessed each for relevance. We excluded 1092 abstracts and reviewed 1184 full-text articles; 750 were excluded. Of 440 included articles, 208 (47%) were related to mental health, particularly post-traumatic stress disorder (71 articles), military sexual trauma (37 articles), and substance abuse (20 articles). The number of articles addressing VA priority topic areas increased over time, including reproductive health, healthcare organization and delivery, access and utilization, and post-deployment health. Three or fewer articles addressed each of the common chronic diseases: diabetes, hypertension, depression, or anxiety. Nearly 400 articles (90%) used an observational design. Eight articles (2%) described randomized trials. CONCLUSIONS Our evidence map summarizes patterns, progress, and growth in the female Veterans' health and healthcare literature. Observational studies in mental health make up the majority of research. A focus on primary care delivery over clinical topics in primary care and a lack of sex-specific results for studies that include men and women have contributed to research gaps in addressing common chronic diseases. Interventional research using randomized trials is needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisheva R Danan
- VA HSR&D Center for Chronic Disease Outcomes Research, Minneapolis VA Healthcare System, 1 Veterans Drive (152), Minneapolis, MN, 55417, USA. .,Department of Medicine, University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis, MN, USA.
| | - Erin E Krebs
- VA HSR&D Center for Chronic Disease Outcomes Research, Minneapolis VA Healthcare System, 1 Veterans Drive (152), Minneapolis, MN, 55417, USA.,Department of Medicine, University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - Kristine Ensrud
- VA HSR&D Center for Chronic Disease Outcomes Research, Minneapolis VA Healthcare System, 1 Veterans Drive (152), Minneapolis, MN, 55417, USA.,Department of Medicine, University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - Eva Koeller
- VA HSR&D Center for Chronic Disease Outcomes Research, Minneapolis VA Healthcare System, 1 Veterans Drive (152), Minneapolis, MN, 55417, USA
| | - Roderick MacDonald
- VA HSR&D Center for Chronic Disease Outcomes Research, Minneapolis VA Healthcare System, 1 Veterans Drive (152), Minneapolis, MN, 55417, USA
| | - Tina Velasquez
- VA HSR&D Center for Chronic Disease Outcomes Research, Minneapolis VA Healthcare System, 1 Veterans Drive (152), Minneapolis, MN, 55417, USA
| | - Nancy Greer
- VA HSR&D Center for Chronic Disease Outcomes Research, Minneapolis VA Healthcare System, 1 Veterans Drive (152), Minneapolis, MN, 55417, USA
| | - Timothy J Wilt
- VA HSR&D Center for Chronic Disease Outcomes Research, Minneapolis VA Healthcare System, 1 Veterans Drive (152), Minneapolis, MN, 55417, USA.,Department of Medicine, University of Minnesota Medical School, Minneapolis, MN, USA
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Davis AK, Bonar EE, Goldstick JE, Walton MA, Winters J, Chermack ST. Binge-drinking and non-partner aggression are associated with gambling among Veterans with recent substance use in VA outpatient treatment. Addict Behav 2017; 74:27-32. [PMID: 28570911 DOI: 10.1016/j.addbeh.2017.05.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2017] [Revised: 05/18/2017] [Accepted: 05/19/2017] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Gambling is relatively under-assessed in Veterans Affairs (VA) substance use disorder (SUD) treatment settings, yet shared characteristics with substance addiction suggest the importance of understanding how gambling behaviors present in Veterans seeking SUD care. METHOD We evaluated substance use, mental health, and violence-related correlates of past 30-day gambling among 833 Veterans (93% male, M age 48years, 72% Caucasian) seeking treatment in VA outpatient mental health and SUD clinics who completed screening for a randomized clinical trial. RESULTS A total of 288 (35%) Veterans reported past 30-day gambling. Among those who gambled, 79% had cravings/urges to gamble, whereas between 20%-27% of gamblers reported perceived relationship, legal, and daily life problems related to gambling, as well as difficulty controlling gambling. A logistic regression analysis revealed that age, recent binge-drinking, and non-partner physical aggression were associated with recent gambling. CONCLUSIONS Gambling was associated with binge-drinking and non-partner physical aggression, supporting potential shared characteristics among these behaviors such as impulsivity and risk-taking, which may complicate SUD treatment engagement and effectiveness. Findings support the need to screen for gambling in the VA, and to adapt treatments to include gambling as a potential behavioral target or relapse trigger, particularly among heavy drinking patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alan K Davis
- Addiction Center, Department of Psychiatry, University of Michigan, North Campus Research Complex, 2800 Plymouth Rd. Building 16, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA.
| | - Erin E Bonar
- Addiction Center, Department of Psychiatry, University of Michigan, North Campus Research Complex, 2800 Plymouth Rd. Building 16, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Jason E Goldstick
- Injury Center, University of Michigan, North Campus Research Complex, 2800 Plymouth Rd. Building 10, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA; Department of Emergency Medicine, University of Michigan, North Campus Research Complex, 2800 Plymouth Rd. Bldg 10-G080, Ann Arbor, MI 48109-2800, USA
| | - Maureen A Walton
- Addiction Center, Department of Psychiatry, University of Michigan, North Campus Research Complex, 2800 Plymouth Rd. Building 16, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA; Injury Center, University of Michigan, North Campus Research Complex, 2800 Plymouth Rd. Building 10, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Jamie Winters
- Addiction Center, Department of Psychiatry, University of Michigan, North Campus Research Complex, 2800 Plymouth Rd. Building 16, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA; VA Ann Arbor Healthcare System, North Campus Research Complex, 2800 Plymouth Rd. Building 16, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Stephen T Chermack
- Addiction Center, Department of Psychiatry, University of Michigan, North Campus Research Complex, 2800 Plymouth Rd. Building 16, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA; VA Ann Arbor Healthcare System, North Campus Research Complex, 2800 Plymouth Rd. Building 16, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
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17
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Lusk JD, Sadeh N, Wolf EJ, Miller MW. Reckless Self-Destructive Behavior and PTSD in Veterans: The Mediating Role of New Adverse Events. J Trauma Stress 2017; 30:270-278. [PMID: 28471014 PMCID: PMC5482753 DOI: 10.1002/jts.22182] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2016] [Revised: 01/24/2017] [Accepted: 02/04/2017] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
The addition of self-destructive and reckless behavior as a symptom of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in DSM-5 has stimulated renewed interest in understanding relationships between these behaviors and trauma-related psychopathology. This study examined the relationship between reckless and self-destructive behaviors (RSDB), intervening exposure to new adverse events, and later PTSD severity in a sample of trauma-exposed veterans. At baseline, participants were assessed for RSDB (past 5 years) and current PTSD severity (N = 222). PTSD severity was then reassessed approximately 4 years later (N = 148). Overall, RSDB were reported by 74.4% of the sample, with 61.3% engaging in multiple forms of RSDB. The most commonly endorsed behaviors included alcohol/drug abuse (42.8%), driving while intoxicated (29.4%), gambling (24.7%), and aggression (23.1%). There was a positive correlation between RSDB and PTSD severity at both the baseline (r = .16, p = .031) and follow-up assessment (r = .24, p = .005). Path models indicated that exposure to new adverse events fully mediated the effect of Time 1 RSDB on PTSD symptoms at Time 2 (indirect association: β = .05, p = .046). Results suggest that RSDB are common among trauma-exposed veterans and may perpetuate PTSD symptoms by increasing exposure to new adverse events.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joanna D. Lusk
- National Center for PTSD at VA Boston Healthcare System
- Boston University School of Medicine, Department of Psychiatry
| | - Naomi Sadeh
- National Center for PTSD at VA Boston Healthcare System
- Boston University School of Medicine, Department of Psychiatry
- University of Delaware, Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences
| | - Erika J. Wolf
- National Center for PTSD at VA Boston Healthcare System
- Boston University School of Medicine, Department of Psychiatry
| | - Mark W. Miller
- National Center for PTSD at VA Boston Healthcare System
- Boston University School of Medicine, Department of Psychiatry
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18
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Stefanovics EA, Potenza MN, Pietrzak RH. Gambling in a National U.S. Veteran Population: Prevalence, Socio-demographics, and Psychiatric Comorbidities. J Gambl Stud 2017; 33:1099-1120. [DOI: 10.1007/s10899-017-9678-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
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Whiting SW, Potenza MN, Park CL, McKee SA, Mazure CM, Hoff RA. Investigating Veterans' Pre-, Peri-, and Post-Deployment Experiences as Potential Risk Factors for Problem Gambling. J Behav Addict 2016; 5:213-20. [PMID: 27156377 PMCID: PMC5387772 DOI: 10.1556/2006.5.2016.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Background and aims Gambling disorder and its comorbid diagnoses are observed at higher rates in military veterans than in the general population. A significant research gap exists regarding the relationships of veterans' life and service experiences to problematic gambling. The present study explored pre-, peri-, and post-deployment factors associated with problem gambling in veterans. Methods Veterans of Operation Iraqi Freedom, Operation Enduring Freedom, and Operation New Dawn (n = 738; 463 males, and 275 females) completed questionnaires via structured telephone interview. We conducted bivariate and multinomial logistic regression analyses exploring associations among problem-gambling severity and socio-demographic variables, psychiatric comorbidities, and 10 scales of the Deployment Risk and Resilience Inventory measuring experiences pre-, peri-, and post-deployment. Results Approximately 4.2% of veterans indicated at-risk or probable pathological gambling (ARPG) post-deployment (two or more DSM-IV criteria for pathological gambling). Bivariate analyses found more severe gambling in males, higher frequencies of post-traumatic stress disorder, substance dependence, traumatic brain injury, panic disorder, and depression in veterans with ARPG, and higher general harassment during deployment, and lower social support and more stressful life events post-deployment in those with ARPG. In multivariable models, both post-deployment factors remained significantly associated with ARPG. Discussion The study suggests that problem gambling among veterans is related to service experiences, and particularly to life experiences post-deployment. Conclusions Adverse service and life experiences and lack of social support may contribute to the risk of problem gambling in military veterans. Investigation of how Veterans Affairs clinical settings may serve veterans following deployment to prevent behavioral addictions is warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seth W. Whiting
- Department of Veterans Affairs, VISN 1 Mental Illness Research Education and Clinical Center (MIRECC), West Haven, CT, USA,Department of Psychiatry, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Marc N. Potenza
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA,Department of Neurobiology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA,Child Study Center, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Crystal L. Park
- Department of Psychology, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT, USA
| | - Sherry A. McKee
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Carolyn M. Mazure
- Department of Psychiatry, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Rani A. Hoff
- Department of Veterans Affairs, VISN 1 Mental Illness Research Education and Clinical Center (MIRECC), West Haven, CT, USA,Department of Psychiatry, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA,Corresponding author: Rani A. Hoff; NEPEC/182, 950 Campbell Ave., West Haven, CT 06416, USA; Phone: +1 203 937 3850; Fax: +1 203 937 3433; E-mail:
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