Using geospatial mapping to predict and compare gambling harm hotspots in urban, rural and coastal areas of a large county in England

Abstract

Abstract Background Disordered gambling is a public health problem with interconnections with health and social inequality, and adverse impacts on physical and mental health. Mapping technologies have been used to explore gambling in the UK, though most were based in urban locations. Methods We used routine data sources and geospatial mapping software to predict where gambling related harm would be most prevalent within a large English county, host to urban, rural and coastal communities. Results Licensed gambling premises were most concentrated in areas of deprivation, and in urban and coastal areas. The aggregate prevalence of disordered gambling associated characteristics was also greatest in these areas. Conclusions This mapping study links the number of gambling premises, deprivation, and risk factors for disordered gambling, and highlights that coastal areas see particularly high density of gambling premises. Findings can be applied to target resources to where they are most needed.