Gambling News - August 2005 Edition

"Online Gambling"

Iowa offers help centers for growing number of gambling addicts.

Gamblers exist in different forms: the occasional gambler, the hobby gambler and the addicted gambler and the Internet now offers the latest attractions for addicted gamblers. Internet gambling is just as addictive as traditional forms of gambling. Take a look at the state of Iowa, where casinos are popping up everywhere, if you want to see how Internet gambling can fuel a gambling addiction. The number of problem gamblers is growing along with the growing number of Internet gamblers and gambling sites, including those sites cashing in on the poker craze which is currently sweeping the country and the globe.

Internet gambling sites are contributing to the rising numbers of gambling addicts. In 2005, almost 2,000 people have so far called in to the gambling hotline in Iowa. This is a 43 percent increase from last year. In a check carried out at one gambling website, 69,000 people were found playing Texas Hold ‘em, which is currently the most popular form of poker in the world.

Internet gambling means easier access to gambling venues and easier access means that the number of young gamblers is on the rise too. So, as more young people gamble, we see more young people with gambling addictions. This means that problem gamblers are no longer limited to the forty-something crowd. Fortunately, there are help centers for people with gambling addictions and in the state of Iowa, there are ten gambling treatment programs in addition to the state help line. If you, or anyone that you know, is seeking help for a gambling addiction or other problem, call 1-800-BETS-OFF for help.

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