The World Health Organization (WHO) is taking steps to gather a team of international experts aimed at addressing the issue of gambling-related harm worldwide. The organization has suggested that implementing a global ban on gambling advertisements could effectively mitigate such harm.
On December 2, the United Nations agency shared an update, revealing that 1.2% of the global adult population suffers from some form of gambling disorder.
Further details highlighted by WHO included projections from H2 Gambling Capital, indicating that global gambling revenue is expected to reach $700 billion by 2028. The surge is largely driven by online gambling in low- and middle-income nations.
The update also referenced findings from Gambling Research Exchange Ontario, indicating that 60% of industry revenue comes from individuals gambling at harmful levels.
To combat this, the WHO proposed several public health measures necessary on a universal and population-wide scale to prevent gambling harm.
The initial step suggested involves a complete prohibition on advertising and promotion to curb and reduce damage caused by gambling.
Additionally, WHO emphasized the need for stringent regulations, including a comprehensive registration system imposing binding loss limits, maximum bets, and required breaks during gaming sessions.
The organization also advocated for better regulation and addressed the necessity of examining the industry’s sway over policy and research, alongside promoting counter-messaging to highlight gambling-related dangers.
In areas where gambling is legally recognized, tax revenues often provide a disincentive to reduce harm, according to WHO.
“Gambling industry groups usually resist regulations impacting their business interests,” WHO noted, highlighting the widespread and effective corporate political activity maintaining industry benefits.
Research sectors, influenced by financial and other supports from the industry, also face scrutiny. Limiting the influence of vested interests over research agendas and public policy is viewed as a crucial public health goal.
WHO stressed that effectively responding to gambling harm requires cooperation among governments and called for “multisectoral action” from its members to oversee and manage gambling activities.
“This should involve reducing stigma associated with gambling, ending advertisements and promotions, and concentrating on preventive measures against gambling harm,” added the organization.
In its ongoing efforts, WHO plans to assemble a global team of experts to tackle the public health challenges posed by gambling-related harm.
This group will be responsible for creating new diagnostic tools for identifying gambling disorders.
The information regarding this initiative was initially published on EGR Intel.
