Lottery Tickets Aren’t Child’s Play

Research shows that early childhood gambling experiences, including those with lottery products, can be a risk factor for gambling problems later in life. This research prompted the International Centre for Youth Gambling Problems and High-Risk Behaviors at McGill University and the U.S. National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG) to join forces in developing the Gift Responsibly Campaign. Since 2001, the simple goal of the Campaign is to raise awareness about the risks of underage lottery play. In 2022, 100% of Canadian and U.S. lotteries, along with numerous international lotteries and non-lottery organizations, have joined the Campaign to promote responsible gambling. The Campaign is also endorsed by the North American Association of State and Provincial Lotteries (NASPL) and the European Lotteries (EL). Jeffrey Derevensky , Director of the International Centre for Youth Gambling Problems and High-Risk Behaviors said, -the Gift Responsibly Campaign is a great way to promote responsible gambling by encouraging adults to gift lottery tickets only to adults. Youth problem gambling has emerged as a significant public health issue,- said Keith Whyte, NCPG Executive Director.