Global Impact of Gambling-Related Harm
Authored by experts in gambling, public health, and regulatory policy, the report estimates that approximately 450 million people worldwide exhibit at least one behavioral symptom or have experienced harmful personal, social, or health consequences due to gambling.
Of these, around 80 million individuals suffer from gambling disorder, underscoring the significant global impact of gambling-related harm.
Calls for Stronger Regulation and Public Health Approach
The Lancet’s Public Health Commission on Gambling recommends the immediate establishment of more robust global regulatory controls.
The report emphasizes that sophisticated marketing strategies and increased access to the internet and mobile devices have made gambling more accessible, particularly to adolescents and younger children. It notes an “elevated risk” of harm among youth routinely exposed to gambling advertising and raises concerns about gambling-like mechanics in video games.
GambleAware Supports the Findings
GambleAware, a UK-based grant-making body that funds gambling research and treatment programs, has expressed support for the report’s conclusions.
Zoe Osmond, CEO of GambleAware, stated: “We’ve long called for gambling harm to be treated as a public health issue, so we welcome that this report echoes our concerns. More needs to be done to end the blight of gambling harm across society.”She emphasized the need for a government-led national strategy to prevent gambling harm, supported by sustainable funding.
Alarming Statistics Among Online Gamblers
The commission’s systematic review and meta-analysis revealed that gambling disorder affects 15.8% of adults and 26.4% of adolescents who engage with online casino or slot products. Additionally, 8.9% of adults and 16.3% of adolescents participating in sports betting are affected.
The Lancet’s report underscores the necessity for global collaboration in strengthening gambling regulations to mitigate rising public health risks. As the gambling industry continues to expand its online presence, experts and organizations like GambleAware advocate for immediate action to protect vulnerable populations from the adverse effects of gambling.