Gambling is an emerging public health issue in Wales according to the Chief Medical Officer for Wales, Dr Frank Atherton.
In his second annual report, called Gambling with our Health, Dr Atherton calls for more support for those experiencing gambling-related harm in Wales, better research and monitoring of the impact of gambling on health, and for greater regulatory control of gambling in Wales and the UK.
According to the Welsh Government, in Wales, 61% of adults gambled in the last 12 months. 1.1% of the population, which is equivalent to 30,000 people, self-reported as having a problem with gambling.
A further 3.8% of people in Wales are estimated to be at risk of problem gambling in Wales.
Whilst recognising that gambling can be a source of enjoyment, Dr Atherton is calling on the Welsh Government to agree an action plan to reduce gambling-related harm across Wales.
He also calls on the UK Government to take stronger action to restrict advertising of gambling products, to improve player protection, and to impose a levy on the industry to research, prevent and correct the adverse effects of gambling.
Dr Atherton said: “While it may be harmless fun for some, gambling has great potential to cause harm to individuals and can have devastating effects on the people closest to them, and communities.
“There are still big gaps in our understanding of this issue, and we need to reduce stigma around gambling so that more people who require help come forward.
“I hope my annual report will help highlight this issue, to be addressed, before it becomes a major public health issue.”
Tim Miller, executive director of the Gambling Commission said: “Gambling-related harm is a public health concern and the Gambling Commission is committed to preventing that harm.
“We’re pleased Dr Atherton is raising awareness of the impacts that gambling can have to both individuals and those around them.
“As the gambling regulator, we will continue to work with public health professionals, government and the industry to forge a sustained, world-leading approach to make gambling safer for people across Wales and the rest of Great Britain.”