UK Doctors Urged to Probe on Gambling Habits at Health Checkups
According to the findings of a recent study, problem gambling affects around 300,000 persons in the UK. And another 3.8 million individuals, including children, are impacted as a result of their addiction.
According to a draught of new health guidelines, doctors are encouraged to ask about the patients' gaming behaviours to determine whether they require assistance with their medical situation.
It goes on to say that primary care doctors should have early conversations with problem gamblers about treatment options, including talking therapy and software that limits internet gaming.
There are now 12 NHS gambling treatment clinics in England, and three more are in the planning stages. Patients can be referred to any of these clinics.
According to the findings of a recent study, problem gambling affects around 300,000 persons in the UK. And another 3.8 million individuals, including children, are impacted as a result of their addiction.
The analysis indicates that males are more prone to bet than women, particularly online, where 15% of men but only 4% of women participate in gambling activities.
The NHS gambling clinics see an average of 3,000 patients every year.
In addition, GamCare, a charitable organisation that operates the National Gambling Helpline, stated that healthcare practitioners might play "an important role" in reducing damage by assisting individuals in finding support.
"We believe these recommendations, if implemented, will present a greater opportunity to prevent gambling harms from occurring in the UK," director of services Fiona MacLeod said.
