Call from Expert Urges Examination of Gambling and Betting Advertisements in Canada

In the midst of the continuous growth of sports betting in North America, an expert advocates for the careful examination of gambling and betting advertisements in Canada.

Amidst a five-year surge in the sports betting market across North America, the repeal of PASPA in the US has led to widespread expansion, offering millions of Americans access to this activity in over 30 states. Similarly, neighboring Canada, specifically Ontario, ventured into legal online sports betting in April of last year, identifying itself as one of the most profitable jurisdictions in North America. However, as the number of bettors continues to rise, concerns about the potential harm of gambling are also growing.

Recently, the Canadian Mental Health Association’s Ontario division called for strict regulations on online gambling advertising to safeguard consumers from excessive gambling. This proposal followed earlier changes proposed by the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO), the province’s regulatory body, which sought to prohibit celebrities or athletes from endorsing gambling products. Nevertheless, these changes would not completely ban gambling advertisements.

Luke Clark, the director of the Center for Gambling Research at the University of British Columbia, expressed concerns about the allure of sports betting, particularly for young adults and even children, as it can lead to harm and addiction. Recognizing the connection between gambling behavior and gambling advertising, Clark emphasized the need for thorough scrutiny of gambling ads.

Betting carries the same potential for addiction as other forms of gambling

Clark emphasizes the importance of collecting and analyzing accurate data to understand the adoption of sports betting products and their impact on the prevalence of gambling-related issues. He acknowledges the significant growth of sports wagering in recent times.

Additionally, Clark warns about the potential for addiction to sports betting, similar to other forms of gambling. He highlights the various challenges that individuals addicted to gambling may face, including depression, financial difficulties, and even suicide.

This cautionary message arrives as the British Columbia Lottery Corporation (BCLC) actively seeks to engage new audiences, particularly targeting a younger demographic. BCLC’s CEO, Pat Davis, clarifies that their focus is on individuals of legal age and within their thirties, rather than the typical demographic of individuals aged 50 and above. However, Davis acknowledges the current abundance of gambling advertisements, some of which may not comply with the established regulatory framework.