Gambling addiction has worsened in Canada since single-event sports betting was legalized three years ago, and young Canadians are the most affected, experts told a Senate committee.
While 7 percent of the general population is considered to have a “problem gambling” issue, the rate is 15 percent for those aged 18 to 34, Matthew Young, chief research officer at Greo Evidence Insights, told the transport and communications committee on Sept. 25.
Asked by committee chair Sen. Leo Housakos whether problem gambling has gone up since single-event sports betting was legalized three years ago, Young said, “The early indicators are that yes it has increased so far.”…