[What's new in addiction medicine in 2021 ?].

Addiction medicine is influenced by societal changes and the environment has an impact on addictive behaviors and how they are experienced. The COVID-19 pandemic has had an impact on addictive behaviors, some of which could be favorable, and others highlight vulnerabilities to be considered by clinicians. Recent legislative changes open possibilities to limit the negative impact of electronic lotteries.

A New Swiss Federal Act on Gambling: From Missed Opportunities towards a Public Health Approach?

In January 2019, a new Swiss Federal Act on Gambling (Loi federal de jeux d'argent: LJAr) entered into force following a vote by the Swiss electorate. Intended to modernize and harmonize previous law and open the market for online casinos; the new regulations have highlighted the need for a comprehensive monitoring system. The present article outlines work undertaken by experts within the field to identify and elaborate the first steps towards developing such a monitoring system.

Gambling and problem gambling in Switzerland.

Aims: To provide an overview of gambling and problem gambling in Switzerland, including historical aspects, past and current legislation and policies, treatment options and the research base.

Methods: A literature search was conducted on two databases (PubMed and PsycINFO), and official government and statistical reports selected from the official websites of four sources (Federal Office of Justice; Federal Gambling Board; Federal Office of Statistics; Swiss Lottery and Betting Board).

Results: After a history of banning or partial banning, Swiss gambling became regulated at the beginning of the 20th century through successive laws.