Gambling ads on social media reach more than twice as many men as women, finds study
A study reveals gambling ads on social media reach young men 2.3 times more than women.Summary
Researchers from the University of Cambridge analyzed 411 advertisements from 88 licensed gambling operators in Ireland and found that young men were reached 2.3 times more than women across Meta platforms, even when ads were not directly targeted at men. The study, published in the Journal of Behavioral Addictions, highlights that the 25-34 age group was most exposed, accounting for over a third of unique accounts reached. The findings are particularly relevant as new gambling legislation in Ireland bans most social media gambling advertising unless users opt in. The researchers emphasize that exposure to gambling advertising is linked to increased gambling behavior and harm, noting that men in this age group have a significantly higher rate of problem gambling than women. The study provides a baseline for assessing the impact of future regulatory reforms.
(Source：Medical Xpress)