1 in 2 gamblers in Italy are addicted

(ANSA) - Rome, January 28 - One of every two gamblers in Italy is considered a "pathological" gambler, according to results of a survey released Wednesday by the European Association for Panic Disorder (Eurodap).
    "For one out of two players, (gambling) has become an irreplaceable emotional experience destined to turn into something more serious, into a form of compulsive behavior that can bring serious repercussions on players and their families," said psychologist and Eurodap President Paola Vinciguerra, who recently authored a book about the subject.
    The survey was conducted online and had 850 respondents between the ages of 25 and 65, 50% of whom were classified as "pathological" gamblers, and 20% of whom were categorized "at risk" for becoming addicted.