I understand the reason behind your statement which is due to people who are negatively affected by gambling but we can't say gambling is their problem because the main source of their problem is themselves, and until they are already to set things right before they can overcome the side-effect of gambling.
Honestly, if we're to talk about things that are shortcuts to poverty there are many but I come to the conclusion that whatever is it we're doing in excess can technically lead to poverty and this is why I believe the wisdom and knowledge are needed in every area of our lives.
Having said that, most people don't notice that smoking and alcohol are the number one money-wasting things in the world. Despite the marketing that says it is not good for health, and how it was not allowed to be placed publicly at the bar the tobacco, and liquor companies are making billions of dollars every year.
Exactly the point @Agbe was trying to make but the thing is gambling is not meant for people that doesn't have self control, people that failed to realize when to give a break for some time or as the case may be even quit if thet can't be in control of their games, I concur to your statement that these set of persons are responsible for whatever condition they find themselves in. Some gamblers don't even understand that gambling should not be taken very serious to the extent of putting all their hope in it, this is where the addiction and the poverty itself comes in, every gambler must understand that they don't have control over what happens when gambling but you can control yoursel for going on and on to reduce the risk of chasing loss which leads to addiction itself.
For me whatever takes your hard earned money that's not sure of yielding a return for you can lead you to poverty though gambling is one of them but it all depends on the individuals involved and how they handle their gambling habits, if one applies smartnes and follow gambling concepts there wont be anything like poverty in this.
Buddy you're right about the smoking of a thing is just that some people fail to take cognizance of it, the money being spent on smoking by some people can go a long way in doing some personal stuffs or even more for them but they are stucked with addiction which can also lead to the said poverty when such individuals are been striked by the health conditions that comes with the smoking of a thing.