Online searches for gambling addiction surge as legalized sports betting expands, study finds

Online searches for gambling addiction surge as legalized sports betting expands, study finds

A recent study published in JAMA Internal Medicine by researchers from the University of California, San Diego, and Bryn Mawr College highlights a substantial increase in online searches for gambling addiction help since the expansion of legalized sports betting in the U.S.

The study found that searches for terms like "gambling addiction hotline" have increased by 23% nationally since the 2018 Supreme Court ruling that allowed state-sponsored sports gambling. In particular, states such as Illinois, Massachusetts, Michigan, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, and Virginia showed significantly higher-than-expected search volumes, peaking in June 2023 with 180,000 monthly searches.

The researchers emphasized the need for public health awareness and regulatory intervention to address the growing issue of gambling addiction. They called for stronger collaboration between regulators and health organizations to mitigate gambling-related harms.

To address this crisis, Sen. Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.) and Rep. Andrea Salinas (D-Ore.) have reintroduced legislation that would allocate 50% of federal sports excise tax revenue toward gambling addiction treatment, prevention, and research. The National Council on Problem Gambling supports this bill, stressing that the sports betting industry must be involved in education efforts.

Meanwhile, the American Gaming Association argues that legalized sports betting has helped protect consumers from illegal gambling operations and supports responsible gaming advertisements.

Researchers warn that without immediate intervention, gambling addiction could escalate into a long-term public health crisis.

Source: NBC News