Gambling Disorder: A Growing Health Issue
Gambling Disorder: A Growing Health Issue
Gambling is often viewed as a fun activity, but new research highlights its serious health risks. According to a report from The Lancet Public Health, gambling disorder and its effects are more widespread than previously thought, impacting millions worldwide.
What is Gambling Disorder?
Gambling disorder, also known as problem or pathological gambling, is when a person can’t control their gambling despite negative outcomes. Unlike casual gambling, this condition leads to severe mental, financial, and social problems. Worldwide, around 80 million adults may suffer from gambling disorder, with over 448 million facing some level of harm from gambling.
Effects on Health
Gambling disorder is linked to both physical and mental health issues. People with this disorder often experience depression, anxiety, high blood pressure, and substance abuse. Gambling-related stress can damage relationships and increase the risk of suicide.
Professor Heather Wardle, co-chair of the Lancet report, explained that gambling is no longer limited to casinos; smartphones now offer 24/7 access to gambling. This digital transformation makes gambling more accessible and addictive. Many individuals struggling with gambling also have conditions like anxiety and high blood pressure. Additionally, the debt and shame that come from gambling losses can lead to suicidal thoughts.
Gambling is also connected to crime. People with gambling disorders may get involved in illegal activities, and some gambling businesses have ties to organized crime. For instance, in 2021, the UN estimated $1.7 trillion was spent in illegal gambling markets, much of it controlled by crime groups.
Who is Most at Risk?
Some groups are more vulnerable to gambling problems than others. Young people are at higher risk due to gambling ads in online games. Socio-economically disadvantaged communities are also more affected, as financial stress makes gambling more tempting. Additionally, in lower- and middle-income countries, weak regulations make it harder to manage the growing gambling industry.
The rapid expansion of digital gambling has made it hard for individuals to limit their gambling habits. Persistent marketing and high-tech features encourage frequent gambling, which can lead to addiction.
The Need for Regulation
Gambling is common in over 80% of countries, but low-income nations face greater challenges from gambling-related health issues. These can worsen inequality and hold back progress on global goals like poverty reduction.
Experts urge for stronger global regulations to protect vulnerable groups from gambling harms. In Australia, gambling rates are high, particularly with online betting and electronic gaming machines, which are often promoted through sports.
The Lancet report calls for better global policies to reduce gambling harms, including limiting gambling ads, raising awareness about its risks, and offering affordable treatment. They recommend forming a global coalition to push for policies that address gambling as a public health issue.