Welcome Message

We are pleased to announce that the 3rd Asian Pacific Problem Gambling and Addictions Conference will be held between 2 to 3 June, 2011 in Hong Kong SAR, China. After the success of the 2nd Asian Pacific Problem Gambling and Addictions Conference, the 3rd APPGAC will extend the theme of Syndrome Model of addiction, and discuss how this strategy and theoretical perspective advance clinical services and program design. Given the complexity and volatility of pathological gambling and other expressions of addiction, as well as the likelihood of comorbid clinical and sub-clinical psychiatric problems, it is essential for clinicians to understand the nature and development of these illnesses and to incorporate a multi-faceted and multi-disciplinary approach to the treatment of addiction.

Gambling-related problems and addictions are complex and often comorbid with other mental health and health issues. Studies and clinical experience reveal that pathological gamblers with comorbid psychiatric disorders have more impairments that often requires interventions from various professionals. To facilitate more accurate assessment and comprehensive treatment, this year our conference theme is "Problem Gambling and Addictions: International Collaboration and Multi-disciplinary Approaches". The aims of this conference include advancing professional knowledge about clinical and prevention strategies for disordered gambling and addictions. In addition, we want to encourage interdisciplinary collaborations across the field of addiction.

We look forward to seeing you at the 3rd APPGAC. Together with your participation and commitment, we will have another successful conference and bring concerted effort to care for those suffering with addiction and its many expressions.

At this conference, we look forward to learning from different professionals as we exchange our experiences about how to intervene and prevent addictions. With our collective wisdom and effort, we can advance our knowledge and understanding about addiction and its many co-occurring illnesses.

	Prof. Daniel Tan-lei Shek, PhD, FHKPS, BBS, JP Chairman, Organizing Committee, 3rd APPGAC 2011 Chair Professor, Department of Applied Social Sciences, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University
		Prof. Howard J.Shaffer, Ph.D. Co-Chairman, Organizing Committee, 3rd APPGAC 2011 Director, The Division on Addictions, Cambridge Health Alliance, a teaching affiliate of Harvard Medical School

 

Target participants & Languages

Target participants

• Counseling professionals including psychologists, counselors and social workers
• Teachers and youth workers
• Health care providers including physicians and nurses
• Public health administrators
• Academics and researchers
• Gambling industry personnels

Languages

English
(Simultaneous interpretations to Cantonese and Mandarin will be provided in all keynotes and plenary presentations)