A new report highlights the escalating threat gambling poses to public health worldwide, exacerbated by its rapid growth through mobile phones and the internet. Experts warn that far more individuals are affected by gambling-related issues than previously recognized, underscoring the urgent need for stricter global regulations.
The 45-page report from the Lancet Public Health Commission on gambling reveals that approximately 450 million people are grappling with at least one behavioral symptom or experiencing harmful consequences due to gambling. Among these, around 80 million individuals are diagnosed with gambling disorder, a mental health condition characterized by persistent betting despite adverse effects on their lives. The experts caution that these figures may underestimate the true extent of gambling-related harm.
The report points to sophisticated marketing strategies and easier access to online gambling as key factors contributing to its rise, particularly among adolescents and children who are increasingly exposed to gambling advertisements. Professor Heather Wardle, co-chair of the commission, emphasized that the perception of gambling is changing. “Most people think of traditional casinos, but they don't realize that large technology companies are using various methods to encourage more engagement with gambling, which can pose serious health risks,” she said.
With mobile phones effectively serving as personal casinos accessible 24/7, the gambling industry's growth trajectory is alarming. Wardle called for immediate action, warning that delaying regulation could result in gambling becoming deeply entrenched as a global phenomenon.
The report includes a systematic review that found gambling disorder affected 15.8% of adults and 26.4% of adolescents using online casino products, with 8.9% of adults and 16.3% of adolescents engaged in sports betting also affected. Online gambling, particularly casino games and sports betting, is rapidly expanding, leading to significant financial losses and various health and social issues, including mental health problems, relationship breakdowns, and increased risk of suicide and crime.
The report also highlights that certain populations, especially children and adolescents, are at an elevated risk due to their exposure to gambling promotions. Dr. Kristiana Siste, another expert involved in the report, stressed the need to protect young people from the harms of gambling, noting that early exposure increases the likelihood of developing disorders later in life.
The gambling industry's influence extends to sophisticated marketing techniques, including extensive online surveillance and sponsorship of sports and media. The experts raised concerns about how the industry distorts discussions about gambling's harmful effects, emphasizing individual responsibility while undermining legitimate research.
Professor Malcolm Sparrow, a key contributor to the report, called for policymakers to recognize gambling as a public health issue, similar to the treatment of other addictive substances like alcohol and tobacco. “While the industry promotes gambling as harmless entertainment, communities are facing increasing threats from its harms,” he said, urging for a comprehensive regulatory response to safeguard public health.
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