Macau Gamblers To See Respite From Problem Gambling

Gambling News - December 31st, 2009 - Written by Glen

Macau has exploded into one of the largest gambling hubs in the world, far outpacing Las Vegas in terms of revenue and availability. With increased gambling comes increased risk, and there has been some problem gambling reported in the area. Serving the world's most populated nation was bound to attract attention, and now four organisations are available to aid problem gamblers.

According to a recent press release four centers for the treatment and education of problem gambling have been established and are being served by Caritas, Tung Wah Group of Hospitals, Zion Social Service Limited, and Hong Kong Lutheran Social Service. The centers are set to open on January 1st. The Home Affairs Bureau commissioned the treatment centers, and funding will be supplied by the Ping Wo Fund.

Counseling and treatment are amongst the primary services offered, but education and training programs for future case workers are also available. The four centers will operate for a minimum of three years, with two centers running for a minimum of four.

Problem gambling in America has been kept under 5% on a nationwide level. The United States has long offered similar programs to those that are being established in the East. Even online Online Gambling sites will give players easy access to gambling treatment, should they have a problem and come forth.

The Chinese Government has recently made it easier for mainland residents to travel to and from Macau, so an increase in gambling has been seen. The casinos on the small island are growing rapidly, and have already over shadowed Las Vegas as the largest gambling haven in the world. While problem gambling may become more prevalent, these centers aim to keep pathological gambling at a low point.

Source - http://7thspace.com/headlines/330278/four_organisations_to_operate_gamblers_counselling_and_treatment_centres.html