New Study Says Gambling Has a Steep Cost on Global Public Health
Published: December 9, 2024
Online betting has fueled rapid growth of the gambling industry around the globe, but according to a new report, its harms may be more substantial and far-reaching than previously understood.
Led by an international commission of health experts, the report says gambling harms include financial loss, physical and mental health effects, job loss, relationship problems, and increased risk of suicide and domestic violence. These harms are not limited to the individual who is experiencing a gambling disorder but can also be passed on to family members and communities.
“Anyone with a mobile phone now has access to what is essentially a casino in their pocket, 24 hours a day,” says commission co-chair Heather Wardle. “Highly sophisticated marketing and technology make it easier to start and harder to stop gambling, and many products now use design mechanics to encourage repeated and longer engagement.”
As legal gambling grows to reach more than 80 percent of countries worldwide, the report estimates that 16 percent of adults and 26 percent of adolescents who engage in gambling activities via online casinos or slot products experience gambling disorders, while nine percent of adults and 16 percent of adolescents who engage in sports betting meet the criteria for a gambling disorder.
Considering these findings, the commission determined that gambling is a threat to public health and called for stronger regulations, including gambling and advertisement restrictions, awareness campaigns about the dangers of gambling, and more accessible support for those experiencing gambling-related harms.
Through several statewide initiatives, Ohio provides many resources to help increase awareness of responsible gambling practices and offer support to those experiencing a gambling disorder.
- Self-ban program: Time Out Ohio allows individuals to voluntarily ban themselves from gambling via Ohio’s casinos, racinos, and sports gaming for the duration of their choice.
- Deposit and time limits: Pause Before You Play offers guidance for setting limits on how much money or time you spend gambling to help prevent excessive or prolonged gambling activities.
- Education and awareness campaigns: Change the Game Ohio spreads awareness about the risks of youth gambling and provides toolkits to help inform parents, educators, and professionals about how to prevent it.
- Accessible support services: If you are experiencing a gambling disorder, you can find counseling services and support via the Ohio Gambling Telehealth Network, which offers virtual support for all Ohioans at no cost.
As you evaluate your relationship with betting, you can take the quiz to rate your risk for a gambling disorder and find support by utilizing these resources.
If you or someone you care about needs help, don’t hesitate to call the free and confidential Ohio Problem Gambling Helpline, where trained and understanding specialists are available 24/7 to take your call, with no strings or commitments attached. Call 1-800-589-9966 or text 4HOPE to 741741 today.