02 April 2026

European Doctors call for urgent EU action on gambling and gaming harms

The Standing Committee of European Doctors (CPME) urges policymakers to take immediate and coordinated action to address the growing public health crisis posed by gambling and gaming. In a newly adopted policy, the medical community warns that the rapid expansion of online platforms, combined with aggressive marketing and addictive design features, is driving harmful behaviours across Europe, particularly among young people.

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Gambling, now widely accessible both online and offline, is increasingly recognised as a major public health issue. It is associated with serious consequences including financial hardship, mental illness, family breakdown, and increased risk of suicide. While often perceived as an individual issue, doctors stress that its impacts extend to families, communities, and future generations.

CPME President Dr Ole Johan Bakke said “Gambling and gaming are no longer isolated entertainment activities. They are powerful commercial forces shaping bad health outcomes. Without decisive policy intervention, harm will continue to grow, especially among vulnerable populations.’’

CPME Treasurer Prof. Dr Ray Walley added ‘’Advertising, marketing, promotion and sponsorship of gambling and gaming must be ended. We also need a harmonised and mandatory EU-wide age verification solution. This would protect especially youth and the most vulnerable who are routinely exposed to gambling product advertising, industry messaging and sponsorship, particularly online. It is time to position gambling and gaming as commercial determinants of health where profit-driven strategies contribute to significant health harms. ‘’

The new CPME policy also emphasises the need for evidence-based prevention and treatment strategies, alongside better training for healthcare professionals to identify and address gambling and gaming related harm. Moreover, it highlights how the gambling industry is expanding through online platforms, legalisation, and media and sports partnerships.

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