The Lancet Health Commission Calls for Immediate Action Against the 'Gambling Threat'

A recent report published by the Public Health Commission of the medical journal 'The Lancet' has warned about the threat of gambling to public health worldwide and emphasized the need for immediate actions to combat its harmful effects. This report, based on extensive research and scientific studies, shows that gambling is rapidly spreading through digital platforms and mobile phones, and its negative impacts on individuals' lives are becoming increasingly evident. The report states that approximately 450 million people worldwide have shown at least one behavioral sign related to gambling or have experienced personal, social, or health-related harm due to gambling. Additionally, at least 80 million people suffer from 'gambling disorder,' classified as a disease within the category of addictive disorders, which includes a pattern of repeated and continuous gambling despite negative consequences in the individual's life. Professor Heather Wardle, one of the directors of the Lancet Public Health Commission, discusses the significant threat gambling poses to global health, stating, 'Many people envision Las Vegas casinos or buying a lottery ticket when they think of gambling. However, the reality of gambling today, using advanced technology and diverse techniques by large tech companies, poses much greater health risks.' The report also highlights the harms caused by gambling, including financial losses, the risk of economic bankruptcy, physical and mental health issues, the breakdown of relationships and families, increased risk of suicide and domestic violence, property and personal crimes, and job loss. According to experts, these impacts are not evenly distributed across society, with specific groups, such as teenagers and younger children who are typically exposed to gambling product advertisements, facing higher risks. Dr. Christiana Cyst, one of the report's experts, emphasized the need to protect children, stating, 'Early exposure to gambling increases the risk of developing gambling disorders in the future, and children and teenagers are particularly vulnerable to the simple allure of making money and online gambling game designs.' The commission's report also warns about how gambling products are marketed by its multi-billion dollar industry through innovative digital marketing approaches designed based on 'deep surveillance' to target online consumers. Professor Malcolm Sparrow, another expert involved in the report, pointed out the necessity of increasing gambling regulations, stating, 'While the industry continues to promote gambling as a harmless pastime, countries and communities are facing rapidly increasing threats from gambling harms. The commission urges policymakers to consider gambling as a public health issue, just as we deal with other addictive and unhealthy commodities like alcohol and tobacco.'