Doctors are advocating for restrictions on sports betting advertisements, expressing concern that they are exposing young individuals to potential future gambling issues. Dr. Shannon Charlebois, a family physician and medical editor at the Canadian Medical Association Journal (CMAJ), emphasized the detrimental impact of gambling on people’s lives across various demographics. Together with Dr. Shawn Kelly, they penned an editorial in the CMAJ highlighting the pervasive nature of betting ads during sports broadcasts and the proliferation of online gambling platforms accessible via smartphones.
Dr. Kelly, an adolescent addiction specialist, pointed out that even if betting ads are not directly targeting youth, their presence still influences young viewers. He emphasized the need to address gambling behavior as an emerging concern, particularly among underage individuals engaging in online wagering without legal permission.
Studies have indicated a surge in gambling-related problems among teenagers, leading to financial and emotional strain for both youths and their families. Dr. Nigel Turner from the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health highlighted the long-term consequences of gambling addiction, including increased substance use, criminal behavior, and suicidal tendencies associated with gambling activities.
Efforts to curb youth exposure to gambling advertisements have been proposed, with calls for regulating sports betting ads and restricting their presence during games and on social media platforms frequented by young audiences. Dr. Charlebois stressed the normalization of harmful behaviors through constant exposure to gambling messages, particularly affecting the developing brains of children and teenagers.
While acknowledging the importance of responsible advertising practices, Paul Burns, the president of the Canadian Gaming Association (CGA), advocates for education and awareness over limiting access to gambling opportunities. He emphasized the need for responsible advertising practices, especially concerning youth, and highlighted the CGA’s efforts to monitor and regulate online gambling advertisements.
Overall, the medical community underscores the need for proactive measures to mitigate the harmful effects of gambling advertisements on vulnerable populations, emphasizing the importance of prioritizing youth protection and well-being in the face of increasing gambling-related challenges.
