- The Valencian Community is among the regions with the greatest reduction in problem gambling, now nearing the national average.
- In 2024, the Ministry of Health will increase funding for Community Prevention Units for Addictive Behaviors by over 20%, with a total investment of €3.84 million.
- The Director General of Mental Health and Addictions emphasizes the commitment to prevention, treatment, enhanced support services, and public awareness.
Significant Decline in Problem Gambling
The Valencian Community has seen the most significant reduction in problem gambling prevalence, approaching the national average for the first time. This achievement was announced by Bartolomé Pérez, Director General of Mental Health and Addictions at the Ministry of Health, during the presentation of the latest findings from Spain’s Survey on Alcohol and Drugs (EDADES) before the Valencian Community’s Gaming Commission.
According to data from the National Plan on Drugs, the prevalence of problem gambling among individuals aged 15 to 64 in the Valencian Community has fallen by 24%—from 2.5% in 2022 to 1.9% in 2024, aligning closely with the national average of 1.7%. This decline continues a sustained downward trend since 2018, when problem gambling rates reached 5% within the same age group.
Bartolomé Pérez described these results as a “milestone” in gambling prevention, stating:
“Not only have we successfully reduced the prevalence of pathological gambling, but we have also laid the foundation for long-term progress. Our focus on prevention, expanding treatment resources, and raising public awareness is delivering tangible results.”
He credited the success to collaboration between institutions, professionals, and social organizations, highlighting that the decline in gambling-related issues proves the effectiveness of prevention and treatment strategies.
Increased Investment in Prevention and Treatment
To support these efforts, the Ministry of Health has increased funding for Community Prevention Units for Addictive Behaviors and Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) working in this field by over 20%, bringing the total investment to €3.84 million in 2024.
This additional funding reinforces the Valencian Community’s position as one of Spain’s leading regions in reducing problem gambling, demonstrating the importance of continued investment in prevention and treatment services.
Positive Trends Across All Population Segments
The study highlights improvements across all demographic groups, with a particularly notable decline among women.
- Women: Problem gambling rates fell from 2.2% in 2022 to 1.3% in 2024.
- Men: A smaller but still positive decrease from 2.8% to 2.6%.
By age group, problem gambling rates have declined across nearly all segments, with the exception of those aged 55-64, where a slight increase was recorded. Among young people (15-24 years), rates dropped from 1.9% to 1.5%, reinforcing the effectiveness of youth-focused prevention strategies.
Additionally, fewer individuals are now seeking treatment for gambling addiction. In 2024, only 388 people began treatment for pathological gambling—the lowest number in the past decade, excluding the COVID-19 pandemic period.
Shifts in Gambling Habits
While lotteries and sports betting remain the most popular gambling activities, the study notes a continued decline in betting shop participation, reinforcing a shift away from in-person gambling as a mainstream option.
The Valencian Community’s progress in tackling problem gambling demonstrates the impact of sustained prevention efforts, policy improvements, and strategic investment, ensuring a safer and more responsible gambling environment for residents.
