A new study revealed that restricting gambling advertising can help mitigate its potentially harmful effects, especially on vulnerable populations.Researchers from the University of Sheffield and Glasgow have analyzed the connection between gambling advertising exposure and related intentions, attitudes, and behaviors that can lead to increased risks such as debt, crime, physical and mental health problems, job loss, and relationship issues.
‘Dose-Response Effect’
The team analysed eight reviews in the field and 70 research papers and found a consistent causal relationship between exposure to gambling advertising and increased gambling activity and intentions.The research, funded by City Hall, London, and published in the Public Health journal, also showed a “dose-response effect” where higher exposure to advertising leads to higher participation rates and therefore more significant risk of harm. The study highlights the impact on children and young people, as well as those already at risk of gambling-related harm.Gambling-related harm is a significant contributor to health inequalities, with disadvantaged individuals more susceptible to its negative consequences.
Higher Exposure Increases Gambling
According to Professor Elizabeth Goyder from the University of Sheffield, these at-risk individuals are even more likely to increase their gambling involvement due to higher exposure to advertising. The study concludes that implementing restrictions on gambling advertising will likely reduce harm to minors, young people, and adults already prone to gambling-related harm. Market analysts believe that such restrictions will not only reduce overall harm but also alleviate the negative impact of advertising on gambling-related inequalities.