Concern in Santa Fe about the Increase in Online Gambling Among Young People
The study, carried out between June 7 and 15, 2024, surveyed the habits of 409 people from Santa Fe and the department. The results are overwhelming: a third of young people up to 25 years old have participated in online betting. In the week prior to the survey, more than 30% of respondents placed bets and almost 25% did so in the last month. The most used platforms are online casinos, especially among young people, which underlines the seriousness of the problem.
“The growth in online betting among children and young people is alarming,” said Mahmud. The representative emphasized the need for effective public policies to address this problem, among which the implementation of the online Gambling Prevention Program in classrooms stands out. This program aims to provide pedagogical tools to teachers, families and students to increase knowledge and prevention of gambling addiction.
In line with these initiatives, this Tuesday, June 25, a talk titled “Let’s talk about gambling addiction. The problem of online gambling in young people and adults” will be held, given by the renowned journalist Nicolás Cayetano. Organized by Demos, Deputy Mahmud and Senator Paco Garibaldi, the talk will take place at the ATE Casa España Cultural Center. It should be noted that Cayetano has publicly shared his personal experience with gambling addiction, which adds significant testimonial value to the activity.
The Demos report also reveals a worrying lack of information and awareness about the risks of pathological gambling. 21% of those surveyed admitted to not being informed about problem gambling, and 16.6% expressed the need for more information. Furthermore, half of the participants recognized online gambling as a serious problem, and 31.1% know someone close to them who suffers from gambling addiction.
Given these findings, several urgent measures have been suggested, such as the regulation of online gambling activity, the banning of betting advertising and increasing public awareness on the issue. These actions are seen as fundamental to confront the growing problem of pathological gambling in the region.
Read the full report on gaming habits:
