Report: Gambling Poses Global Threat to Public Health

Facts

• The Lancet published a 45-page research paper on Thursday indicating that gambling represents an escalating global threat to public health, with mobile phones and the internet exacerbating the issue.^[1]
• The 22-member public health committee on gambling, made up of academics from 12 countries, analyzed studies and surveys regarding gambling prevalence, its effects, and associated harms. They concluded that global regulations are inadequate to protect the public and recommended enhancements.^[2][3]
• The Lancet's editorial letter, published alongside the report, described gambling as 'not a simple leisure activity' but rather a 'health-harming addictive behavior' within an ecosystem of 'unparalleled realms and capacities offered by digital transformation.'^[4]
• According to the report, approximately 450M individuals encounter at least one behavioral symptom or have faced detrimental personal, social, or health repercussions due to gambling.^[5]
• Research found that children and young people are specifically vulnerable to gambling harm through industry advertising, messaging, and sponsorship. Approximately 80M individuals have a gambling disorder, and experts predict that net consumer losses will reach $700B by 2028.^[3]
• Governments worldwide were criticized for allegedly ignoring the consequences of gambling and not providing adequate public health safeguards. The authors recommend controlling game access and advertising, boosting risk awareness, and enhancing victim assistance. The writers also suggest minimum betting ages and limits.^[2]

Sources: ^[1]Guardian, ^[2]NBC, ^[3]The Lancet (a), ^[4]The Lancet (b) and ^[5]Irish Examiner.

Narratives

• Narrative A, as provided by The Lancet and Greater Govanhill. This report is finally calling attention to the growing problem of gambling, as those who have fallen victim to this silent addiction are too often stereotyped and dismissed. Not only has gambling become a public health problem for hundreds of millions worldwide, but its long-term effects on consumers remain unknown. In order to avoid a severe health crisis, the report's authors have rightly recommended that governments take control.
• Narrative B, as provided by Jumio and BBC News. From alcohol to drugs and video games to even exercise, studies have shown that people can become addicted to almost anything. Online casinos, sports betting, and wagering apps have certainly fueled the rapid rise of gambling, but the catastrophic framing of the issue does more harm than good. Gaming operators and players must instead understand responsible gaming to make gambling fun and safe. The industry can efficiently protect children and other banned players from gambling by using modern identity verification, authentication, and AML screening systems.