A new study shows that online gambling and betting is on the rise among teens in British Columbia.

The report, based on the 2023 Teen Survey, found that 34 per cent of students aged 12 to 18 spent real money on sports betting or buying items for video games in the past year.

Researchers say online sports betting has doubled in size over the past five years. While lottery ticket purchases have declined, online gambling has replaced it.

Another part of the report shows that 12 per cent of teens felt they needed help to cope with problems caused by this type of gaming.

Experts warn that gambling at a young age can negatively affect teens' concentration, sleep, academic performance and mental health, and families should prevent further harm by managing screen time and having honest conversations with their children.

News source