Experts say problem gambling rises

By Associated Press

MUSKOGEE, Okla. (AP) – As the number of casinos in Oklahoma has increased, experts say the number of pathological or problem gamblers also is on the rise.

Problem gambling can begin with meager winnings, and pathological gamblers rarely convert winnings into spending money, but instead use it to fuel their gambling habit, said Wiley Hawell, executive director of the Oklahoma Association for Problem and Compulsive Gambling.

In addition to working with problem gamblers, the association also works with casinos, most of which are in the in the business of helping problem gamblers, Hawell said.

The Cherokee Nation has a program for problem gamblers. The gamblers identify themselves as having a problem and sign a written promise not to gamble at the tribal establishments. If such a person does manage to gamble at one of the casinos without being recognized and wins a jackpot, the jackpot is not paid to them, Hawell said.