Social disadvantage and gambling severity: a population-based study with register-linkage.

Background: Studies have found an association between problem gambling and poverty. However, there is relatively little research on social inequalities and problem gambling using population representative data.

Methods: A population-representative self-report web-based and postal survey with register-based linkage was conducted in the three geographical areas of Finland.

Longitudinal prospective associations between psychological symptoms and heavy episodic drinking from adolescence to midlife.

Aim: This study examined whether development of psychological symptoms (PS) differed between persons with different longitudinal profiles of heavy episodic drinking (HED) from adolescence to midlife. In addition, the reciprocal associations between PS and HED were studied.

Methods: Participants of a Finnish cohort study in 1983 at age 16 ( N = 2194) were followed up at ages 22 ( N = 1656), 32 ( N = 1471), and 42 ( N = 1334).

How much gambling is too much? Identifying potential problem gambling among adolescents.

Aims: Using a population-based sample of Finnish 12-17 year olds, this study explored gambling behaviour limits for potential problem gambling [South Oaks Gambling Screen - revised for adolescents (SOGS-RA)].

Methods: Data were obtained from the Youth Gambling Survey 2006, which is a cross-sectional survey of a nationally representative random sample of 5000 adolescents. Adolescents who participated in gambling at least once a month were selected from the data (n=1827, 25.

The extent and distribution of gambling harm in Finland as assessed by the Problem Gambling Severity Index.

Background: Preventing gambling harm has become a policy priority in many European countries. Adverse consequences related to problem gambling are well known, but few studies have analyzed gambling-related harm in detail in general population samples. We determined the extent and distribution of gambling harm in Finland, as assessed by the Problem Gambling Severity Index (PGSI), and analyzed gambling involvement, demographics and their association with various types of harm.

Drug use among prisoners: by any definition, it's a big problem.

According to several studies, the prevalence of drug use (1) among prisoners is manyfold compared to general population. However, comparisons across studies are hampered by the use of a variety of mutually noncomparable methodologies. We report substance use among Finnish prisoners using three methods and analyze these differences.

Trends in driving under the influence of drugs: a register-based study of DUID suspects during 1977-2007.

Our aim was to describe the incidence and trends of driving under the influence of drugs (DUID) and to examine the main drug findings and their trends in suspected DUID cases in Finland. A register-based study was conducted of all suspected DUID cases during 1977-2007. The data included 31,963 DUID offenders apprehended by the police with a positive finding for illicit/licit drug impairing driving performance.

Orientations in adolescent use of information and communication technology: a digital divide by sociodemographic background, educational career, and health.

Aims: The role of information and communication technology (ICT) in adolescents' lives was studied, with emphasis on whether there exists a digital divide based on sociodemographic background, educational career, and health. The assumption was that some groups of adolescents use ICT more so that their information utilization skills improve (computer use), while others use it primarily for entertainment (digital gaming, contacting friends by mobile phone).

Methods: Data were collected by mailed survey from a nationally representative sample of 12- to 18-year-olds (n=7,292; response 70%) in 2001 and analysed using ANOVA.