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World Health Organization. (2024) Gambling. Geneva: World Health Organization.

External website: https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/g...


Key facts

  • Standardized global estimation of gambling harms has been limited, but estimates suggest that 1.2% of the world’s adult population has a gambling disorder. Harm from gambling by others is also widespread.
  • Industry analysts estimate global gambling revenue will reach US$ 700 billion by 2028 (1). Smartphone use in low- and middle-income countries will drive much of this growth.
  • People gambling at harmful levels generate around 60% of losses (gambling revenue) (2).
  • Gambling can threaten health, leading to increased incidence of mental illness and suicide. It can drive poverty by diverting household spending from essential goods and services.
  • Gambling harms also include relationship breakdown, family violence, financial distress, stigma, income-generating crimes (theft, fraud), neglect of children, and erosion of civil institutions via corruption and corporate political activity. Gambling is also a common way to launder money obtained through illegal activities.
  • The rapid normalization of gambling is occurring through commercialization and digitization. Sponsorship and marketing are also key factors in rapid global growth.

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