Gambling Control and Public Health: Let’s Be Honest

This comment corrects erroneous and misleading statements about gambling control and public health. In addition, it avoids tilting at windmills. This comment focuses on four primary issues: (1) the politics of public health initiatives, (2) gambling as a determinant of adverse health, (3) the nature and prevalence of gambling addiction, and (4) the moral aspects of gambling. These issues and gambling-related problems in general often influence the practice of medicine, public health policy, and a range of scientific research activities. During this discussion, we provide an evidence-based consideration of gambling and public health. This discussion counters the political and personal views that are influencing public health policy development.