Tackling gambling harm requires a public health approach

Harmful gambling is a global public health issue that is attributable to the rapid expansion of commercial gambling industries which has driven population exposure to high intensity gambling products and commercial practices of the gambling industry.

In January 2025, NICE issued guidelines for commissioners and providers of healthcare and social care services, as well as gambling support services, which focus on improving the identification, assessment, and management of gambling harms. This editorial points out that the guidelines focus on the individual, while the gambling industry escapes scrutiny.