Online Gambling Rise Poses Significant Public Health Threat

A recent report published in Lancet Public Health highlights the significant public health threat posed by the rise of online gambling. It reveals that nearly 16% of adults and over 26% of adolescents using online casinos and slot machines suffer from gambling disorders. The study estimates that up to 449 million people could be affected globally, with around 80 million adults diagnosed with a gambling disorder.

 

Researchers emphasize that gambling is a health-harming addictive behavior with wide-ranging consequences, impacting individuals' health, finances, and relationships, and exacerbating health inequalities. The report calls for governments to implement protective measures, including age restrictions and better monitoring of gambling harms. Read more from The Hill here.