Letters to the Editor
Detroit Free Press
321 West Lafayette Blvd
Detroit, MI 48226
Dear Letters to the Editor:
Judy DeHaven’s article, which appeared in your paper Jan. 12, regarding suicides and one professor’s suggestion that there is a possible link between suicides and gambling, is an indication that your paper is too quick to believe the unfounded myths that are circulating about the gaming industry from anti—gaming advocates.
Dr. David Phillips’ research openly states that his findings “suggest but do not prove that gamblers experience abnormally high risks of suicide.” Not surprisingly, however, some in the media have been quick to jump to their own conclusions. The fact is that Dr. Phillips’ study admits there are a number of other factors that could contribute to increased suicide levels.
Dr. Phillips’ conclusions are also inconsistent with a recent study conducted by the Center for Disease Control, which, in August 1997, found that suicide rates vary considerably among states and regions. The CDC report found that Hawaii and Utah, states with no legalized gaming, had higher suicide rates than Connecticut, Illinois and New Jersey, all states with a large influx of gaming. In fact, New Jersey had the 2nd lowest suicide rate in the nation, even with the existence of casinos for 20 years. The study found that Western regions of the United States, such as Nevada and Wyoming (which has no casinos) were found to have higher suicide rates for reasons linked to isolation, migration and a growing population. In fact, an examination of Nevada found that Las Vegas had a lower suicide rate than rural areas of the state. This study seems to indicate that the presence of casino gaming cannot be correlated with high suicide rates.
The fact that Dr. Phillips’ study cannot determine which individuals in these communities have killed themselves because of gambling is a major missing link to the puzzle, and it seems irresponsible to draw conclusions based on coincidence. It would be similar to suggesting that because Nevada’s infant mortality rate is well below the national average, it must be related to the fact that there is casino gambling there. Both parts of this statement are true, but surely we need more conclusive evidence to make such claims, don’t you think?
There are many individuals and organizations with preconceived notions about the gaming industry, and it is certainly understandable for Detroit to be as cautious as possible regarding the introduction of casinos into the area. But in doing research about gaming, it is important that you not fall prey to the myths and stereotypes perpetuated by gaming opponents, which are too often and easily repeated by many in the media.
Sincerely,
Frank J. Fahrenkopf, Jr.