Gambling, IT, booze addictions rife in Japan: study

RISING INTERNET ADDICTION: Researchers blamed the spread of smartphones and increasing quality of digital content for the rising number of IT addicts, who often prefer the Internet over other essential activities such as sleeping, the Nikkei said.

TOKYO: Nearly five percent of Japanese adults are addicted to gambling, a rate of up to five times that of most other nations, according to a study. 

The study, released to local media on Wednesday, also showed rising adult addiction to the Internet and alcohol in a society long known for its tolerance of boozing and its love of technology.