The surge in digital gambling has led to an estimated 80 million people worldwide now facing gambling-related disorders.

A recent study estimates that around 80 million people worldwide now suffer from gambling disorders, with adolescents being especially impacted. The Lancet Public Health Commission’s research reveals that the rapid growth of online casinos and sports betting markets has dramatically increased exposure to gambling, particularly for young people. This unprecedented exposure through digital platforms makes teenagers highly susceptible to the allure of quick cash and the addictive nature of online gambling.

The report emphasizes the urgent need for public awareness and preventive measures to shield vulnerable individuals from the risks associated with online gambling, especially as gambling problems rise among youth.

The report’s author noted, “Gambling is not a typical form of leisure; it can be an addictive behavior that harms health. The associated risks extend beyond individual well-being, impacting financial stability, relationships, and communities, and exacerbating social and health inequalities.”

The Commission further examines the complex interplay of social, commercial, legal, and political factors that shape the gambling ecosystem, which has transformed with digital advancements, providing unprecedented access to gambling.

The Commission urges governments and policymakers to approach gambling as a public health issue, akin to alcohol and tobacco, offering recommendations to prevent and address the wide-ranging harms linked to gambling.