New Study Reveals Link Between Sports Gambling and Alcohol-Related Risks
The relationship between gambling and alcohol consumption has long been a topic of concern in public health and addiction research. A new study, published in JAMA Psychiatry and funded by the International Center for Responsible Gaming (ICRG), provides compelling evidence of the connection between sports gambling frequency and alcohol-related problems over time.
Key Findings: Gambling and Alcohol-Related Risks
The study, which followed over 4,300 U.S. adults for two years, found that fluctuations in sports gambling frequency were closely tied to changes in alcohol-related harms. While alcohol-related problems slightly declined overall, individuals who frequently engaged in sports betting were more likely to experience drinking-related issues.
Dr. Joshua B. Grubbs of the University of New Mexico, the study’s lead researcher, emphasized the significance of these findings:
“These results highlight the need for screening and intervention strategies targeting sports gamblers who also drink. The interaction between these behaviors may increase the risks associated with both.”
Given the rapid expansion of legal sports betting in the U.S., this study underscores the need for proactive harm-reduction strategies to protect consumers from potential co-occurring risks.
ICRG’s Commitment to Research and Responsible Gambling
As the largest independent funder of gambling research in the U.S., ICRG has played a pivotal role in advancing knowledge on gambling behaviors, addiction risks, and responsible gambling strategies. This latest study builds on prior ICRG-supported research, including:
- Sports bettors face higher risks of addiction compared to other gambling groups, with a strong link to binge drinking (JAMA Network Open, 2024).
- Impulsivity is a key predictor of high-risk gambling behaviors, reinforcing the need for tailored interventions (Addictive Behaviors, 2024).
- Not all sports betting carries the same level of risk, highlighting the importance of customized responsible gambling strategies (Journal of Gambling Studies, 2024).
- Marginalized communities require culturally sensitive harm-reduction efforts to address unique gambling challenges (Addictive Behaviors, 2023).
Recognizing Our Research and Funding Partners
Groundbreaking research like this is only possible with the support of our dedicated funding partners. We extend our gratitude to:
🎰 American Gaming Association
🏆 MGM Resorts International
📱 DraftKings
🏇 William Hill/US Caesars Entertainment
🎲 Entain
🏎️ NASCAR
🎸 Hard Rock International
⛳ The PGA
🎮 IGT
Their commitment to responsible gambling and evidence-based solutions helps advance research that informs industry best practices and public policy.
What’s Next?
This study is part of an ongoing effort to assess gambling behaviors over time, with additional research from this dataset currently under peer review. As sports gambling continues to expand, it is crucial that research-driven insights inform responsible gambling initiatives, public health policies, and industry best practices.
At ICRG, we remain committed to funding rigorous, independent research to promote safer gambling environments and evidence-based solutions.
📖 Read the full study and learn more about our work at JAMA Network.
