Mumbai:– A groundbreaking study published by The Lancet Public Health Commission has revealed alarming statistics regarding gambling disorders worldwide, with an estimated 80 million individuals suffering from problematic gambling. Among the most vulnerable are adolescents, who are increasingly exposed to gambling promotions due to the digital revolution that has brought online casinos and sports betting to the forefront.
The report underscores that children and teenagers are particularly susceptible to the dangers of gambling, as they are often enticed by the appeal of easy money and the game-like nature of online gambling platforms. According to the research, the prevalence of gambling disorders is on the rise, with adolescents facing unprecedented exposure to gambling products.
The Commission highlights that around 448.7 million people globally engage in risky gambling, experiencing behavioral symptoms or negative consequences such as financial problems, social issues, or health deterioration. Of these, 80 million individuals are estimated to have a gambling disorder.
Data from the study also reveals concerning figures for online gambling. A staggering 15.8% of adults and 26.4% of teenagers who engage in online casino games or slot machines develop gambling problems. Similarly, 16.3% of teenagers and 8.9% of adults participating in sports betting are also affected by gambling issues.
Professor Heather Wardle, Co-Chair of the Commission from the University of Glasgow, emphasized the magnitude of the problem. “Anyone with a mobile phone now has access to a casino in their pocket, 24/7,” she stated. Wardle pointed to the role of big tech companies in leveraging advanced marketing techniques to encourage constant engagement, which can have serious health consequences.
The study warns that the ease of accessing gambling platforms, coupled with sophisticated marketing strategies, has made it easier for individuals to start gambling and more difficult to quit. This could result in gambling disorders becoming a more pervasive global issue, challenging governments and health organizations to address the problem effectively.
Alongside financial losses, gambling has been linked to a host of other negative outcomes, including physical and mental health problems, relationship breakdowns, family disruptions, suicide risk, domestic violence, crime, and job loss. These effects exacerbate the public health burden, making it crucial for authorities to step in.
Dr. Kristiana Siste, a commissioner from Universitas Indonesia, called on legislators to take action to protect young people from the harms of gambling. “It is evident that early exposure to gambling increases the likelihood of developing gambling disorders later in life,” she warned.
In response to these concerns, the Commission recommends that governments recognize gambling as a public health issue, similar to alcohol and tobacco, and implement measures to safeguard future generations. These could include stricter regulations on gambling marketing, particularly targeting children and teenagers, and policies to limit access to online gambling platforms.
The study paints a sobering picture of the widespread impact of gambling in the digital age, urging immediate and coordinated efforts to protect public health and well-being across the globe.
