Ludopatía y prevención ausente: Evaluación crítica de las estrategias estatales frente a una adicción silenciosa

Abstract

This article analyzes the problem of gambling addiction in Colombia and the lack of preventive campaigns by the Ministry of Health. Although the WHO recognizes it as a mental disorder, it remains invisible in the country compared to other addictions. This leads to debt, family conflicts, deteriorating mental health, and greater social vulnerability, especially among young people due to the expansion of online gambling. The lack of state action is related to the poor training of health professionals, the absence of official data on its prevalence, the prioritization of other diseases, and the conflict of interest with the gambling industry, which represents revenue for the state. The study is based on articles, research, testimonies, and surveys of university students, revealing that approximately 19% of respondents suffer from or are at risk of gambling addiction. The proposal is to create the podcast "Ministerio en Off," whose objective is to raise awareness of the problem, open debate, and demand state accountability. In this context, it is key to note that the legalization of sports betting in Colombia began with Law 643 of 2001, which regulated games of chance. Subsequently, Law 1753 of 2015 and the creation of Coljuegos were instrumental in regulating online gaming and granting licenses to operators. The first license was issued in 2017, making Colombia a pioneer in regulating this market in Latin America. In conclusion, the Ministry of Health has been largely absent in the face of this addiction. It is urgent to implement clear and humane campaigns, train qualified professionals, and regulate gambling advertising; otherwise, gambling addiction will continue to grow silently, affecting young people and vulnerable groups.