Key Moments:
- UNAD has reiterated its demand for a full ban on gambling and betting advertisements in Spain.
- The organization revealed that 1,304 individuals received treatment for non-substance addictions at 24 centers, with notable demographic differences between men and women.
- UNAD is urging the government to implement stricter deposit limits and accelerate regulatory action to protect vulnerable groups.
UNAD’s Renewed Appeal Against Gambling Advertisement
UNAD (Union of Associations and Entities for the Care of Drug Addicts), Spain’s foremost addiction treatment network, has reiterated its call for a sweeping prohibition on all forms of gambling and betting advertisements. The group maintains that current gambling promotions stand in conflict with national strategies aimed at prevention and public health.
Gambling Addiction Highlighted as Social and Economic Threat
On the occasion of World Gambling-Free Day, UNAD emphasized the impact that gambling advertisements can have, particularly on younger populations, by encouraging addictive behaviors. The network underlined not only the psychological but also the social and economic repercussions associated with gambling habits.
UNAD noted the challenges in recognizing non-substance addictions like gambling and gaming early because their effects are often hidden. “Being so socially normalized, these addictions are often recognized only when they have become chronic, causing deeper emotional and financial damage,” the organization said.
Profile of Treated Cases
According to UNAD’s internal study, Profile of People Served in the UNAD Network, a total of 1,304 individuals were assisted for non-substance addictions across 24 treatment centers.
| Group | Demographics | Main Addictions | Online Behaviors |
|---|---|---|---|
| Women | 24% of cases, Spanish nationals, over 49, employed, with dependent children | Slot machines, bingo | Primarily video gaming |
| Men | Typically aged 34–41, employed, childless | Slot machines, sports betting | Sports betting drove online compulsive behavior |
Advocating for More Stringent Regulations
While acknowledging positive steps from the General Directorate for Gaming Regulation’s draft resolution regarding responsible advertising, as established by Royal Decree 958/2020, UNAD maintained that a complete ban is necessary to reduce gambling-related risks.
UNAD President Luciano Poyato stated:
“The promotion of gambling is incompatible with prevention. Anyone can become vulnerable to addiction, especially when exposed at a young age.”
Alongside this, UNAD is urging the government to expedite the implementation of new deposit limits for gaming platforms, with the intention of safeguarding the most vulnerable and lessening broader negative health and societal consequences.
Outlook for Policy and Industry
UNAD’s renewed advocacy places additional pressure on Spanish regulators as the nation debates how to balance consumer protection with the growth of its gambling sector.
- Author
Daniel Williams
