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International Journal of Mental Health and Addiction

Published in:

01-01-2007

Are the Effects of Gambling Treatment Overestimated?

Author: James R. Westphal

Published in: International Journal of Mental Health and Addiction | Issue 1/2007

Abstract

Background

Studies of clinical trials across the field of healthcare found use of designs that overestimate treatment effects.

Objective

review clinical trial designs used to develop gambling treatment evidence base for suitability to assess cause and effect and to accurately assess treatment effects.

Methods

literature review, grading of evidence, proportions and confidence limits

Results

The majority of published studies on gambling treatment are methodologically unsuited to determine treatment effects. Suitable (randomized and controlled) trails often use designs that can overestimate treatment effects. Attrition in published studies of gambling treatment is substantial, ranging from 11 to 83%. If attrition is not included in the analysis, overestimation of treatment effects may be similar in magnitude.

Conclusions

The current evidence may overestimate gambling treatment effects. The inclusion of intention to treat analysis, careful blinding, more equivalent control groups and measures of adherence to treatment would improve problem gambling treatment clinical trial design.

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Title: Are the Effects of Gambling Treatment Overestimated?
Author: James R. Westphal
Publication date: 01-01-2007
Publisher: Springer-Verlag
Published in: International Journal of Mental Health and Addiction / Issue 1/2007
Print ISSN: 1557-1874
Electronic ISSN: 1557-1882
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s11469-006-9038-4

At a glance: The STEP trials

Springer Medicine

Are the Effects of Gambling Treatment Overestimated?

Abstract

Background

Objective

Methods

Results

Conclusions

At a glance: The STEP trials

Springer Medicine

Abstract

Background

Objective

Methods

Results

Conclusions

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