The rise of online betting has led to the rapid growth of the commercial gambling industry, according to a report from an international commission of health experts. The report highlights that gambling poses a significant threat to public health and calls for stricter regulation to protect individuals from the harmful impacts of gambling. It is estimated that around 72 million people globally are experiencing harms from gambling, and the number is likely to increase as more commercial organizations target individuals to gamble more. The report reveals that a large number of adults and adolescents who use online gambling products have gambling disorders, leading to financial losses, job loss, relationship breakdowns, and increased risks of suicidality and domestic violence.
The report emphasizes the role of online gambling in the increased availability of commercial gambling as a whole. Legalized sports betting apps like DraftKings and FanDuel, along with online casinos and slot machines, have made gambling more accessible and harder to switch off. The commission recommends that governments adopt policies that prioritize the protection of public health by placing responsibility on gambling businesses to minimize harm, rather than solely on individual gamblers. This includes restricting access to gambling, launching public awareness campaigns, enforcing age requirements and betting limits, and providing support for those who suffer from gambling-related harms. While some countries and states have already implemented such measures, the report calls for more comprehensive and stringent regulations to address the growing public health concerns associated with commercial gambling.
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