Problem Gambling Among Schoolchildren in Sub-Saharan African Context : A Cross-Sectional Study of Prevalence and Associated Factors in Benin, 2025.

Gambling is rapidly expanding across Africa, particularly through sports betting. However in Benin, data on gambling behaviors among adolescents is scarce. This study aimed to estimate the prevalence of problem gambling and identify associated factors among secondary school students in Benin. A cross-sectional study was conducted with 1,831 secondary school students from three cities in Benin, using a three-stage random sampling. Problem gambling was assessed using the Canadian Problem Gambling Index (CPGI ≥ 8). Multivariable analyses were used to identify associated factors. Among the 1,831 students surveyed, 341 (18.6%) reported engaging in gambling activities. Among these gamblers, 84 (24.6%) met the criteria for problem gambling. The overall prevalence of problem gambling was 4.59% (95% CI: 3.62-5.55). Factors associated with problem gambling included residing in Dassa-Zoumè (AOR = 2.39; 95% CI: 1.64-3.48) or in Parakou (AOR = 2.18; 95% CI: 1.51-3.15), having low pocket money (0-1,000 XOF) (AOR = 1.74; 95% CI: 1.37-2.21), engaging in problematic alcohol consumption (AOR = 2.65; 95% CI: 2.03-3.47), frequently attending nightclubs (AOR = 1.73; 95% CI: 1.34-2.22), being frequently influenced by friends or relatives (AOR = 1.94; 95% CI: 1.50-2.52), and accessing gambling through both online and physical channels (AOR = 3.06; 95% CI: 2.23-4.22). In contrast, having friends who gamble was associated with a lower likelihood of problem gambling (AOR = 0.43; 95% CI: 0.29-0.66). Problem gambling significantly affects a notable proportion of secondary school students in Benin and is influenced by various geographical, behavioral, and familial factors. Implementing school-based prevention programs and enhancing gambling regulations may help mitigate gambling-related harms among adolescents.