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.

JAMA Network

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Gambling Disorder Screening Day

The 11th Annual Gambling Disorder Screening Day is Tuesday, March 11. Did you know that worldwide, less than 10% of people experiencing Gambling Disorder seek treatment for it? Screening is a low-cost way to raise awareness and help people learn when their gambling has crossed a line. To get more people thinking about their relationship with gambling, you can share the 3-question Brief Biosocial Gambling Screen.

Click here to learn more!

If you would like BBGS magnets, please email nmancini@icrg.org!

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AFSG Newsletter – Funding Opportunities

Call For Proposals
30 January 2025

Effects of the Usage of Digital Technology on Brain Development, Social Behaviours and Mental Health in Children and Young People

Click here to learn more!

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Groundbreaking Study Introduces the Positive Play Quiz: A New Era for Responsible Gambling

The International Center for Responsible Gaming (ICRG) is thrilled to announce a groundbreaking study funded by an ICRG Seed Grant that brings a new, innovative approach to promoting responsible gambling.

Dr. Nassim Tabri and Dr. Michael Wohl of Carleton University, in collaboration with Dr. Richard Wood of Gamres, have published their research in Addiction, a leading journal in addiction science. The study highlights the Positive Play Quiz, a cutting-edge tool designed to enhance Gambling Literacy and encourage responsible gambling practices.

This large-scale randomized controlled trial involved over 4,000 Canadian adults with recent gambling experience. Participants who received feedback through the Positive Play Quiz showed significant improvements in their understanding of gambling mechanics, confidence in using responsible gambling tools, and intentions to adopt responsible behaviors. These findings are particularly timely as online gambling grows globally, addressing misconceptions about odds and mechanics that often drive disordered gambling.

The study represents a major advancement in addiction prevention, with results demonstrating the Positive Play Quiz’s potential to empower players to make informed decisions and reduce high-risk behaviors.

Take the Positive Play Quiz yourself here and explore your gambling literacy.

Read the full open-access article here.

ICRG congratulates Drs. Tabri, Wohl, and Wood on this significant achievement, which marks a new chapter in the fight against gambling harm.

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A Year of Impact and Vision – Arthur Paikowsky Reflects on ICRG’s 2024 Achievements

As the year comes to an end, ICRG President Arthur Paikowsky shares insights on how 2024 has shaped the organization’s mission to assist the gaming industry in minimizing harm to players.

ICRG had a banner year in 2024, marked by remarkable growth in research and educational initiatives. Here are some highlights from Paikowsky’s recent interview:

Raising the Bar for Responsible Gaming

  • ICRG is currently managing 34 active research studies addressing key topics like sports wagering behavior, slot machine appeal, and the intersection of teen drinking and gambling.
  • This year’s funding has also supported three conferences and five webinars, expanding the reach of responsible gaming education.

ICRG remains committed to fostering collaboration, advancing research, and ensuring that player well-being stays at the forefront of gaming innovation.

Read the full interview with Arthur Paikowsky and learn how ICRG is driving the future of responsible gaming.

Click here!

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ICRG Expands Global Reach at SBC LatAm Conference

ICRG was excited to have a presence at this year’s SBC LatAm Conference, where our team—led by President Art Paikowsky and Senior Fundraiser Josh Belkin—introduced ICRG’s mission and initiatives to a new region. With a focus on responsible gaming and gambling disorder, we had the opportunity to connect with industry leaders from Latin America and South America, discussing how research leads to effective, sustainable solutions for gambling-related issues.

As ICRG continues to expand internationally, we’re more committed than ever to fostering a global understanding of gambling addiction, backed by our growing body of research. Meeting with like-minded professionals at SBC LatAm helped us share our insights and build partnerships focused on responsible gaming practices, harm prevention, and treatment strategies. Conversations at our booth highlighted the importance of data-driven solutions to help both individuals and the gaming industry make responsible choices—a strong step toward furthering our research mission on a global scale.

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International Center for Responsible Gaming receives donations totaling $500,000

“These significant contributions from JCM Global and the San Manuel Band of Mission Indians greatly enhance our ability to continue important research and education on gambling disorder,” said ICRG President Art Paikowsky in a statement. “We are immensely grateful for their support and the continued commitment of our industry partners in helping us address and mitigate gambling-related harms.”

Click here to view the full article!


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25th Annual AGEM & AGA Golf Classic Presented by JCM Global Raises $200,000.00 for International Center for Responsible Gaming

October 9, 2024

Representatives from AGEM, the AGA, and JCM Global presented a $200,000 check to the International Center for Responsible Gaming (ICRG) during G2E. The money was raised at the 25th annual AGEM & AGA Golf Classic Presented by JCM Global. To date, the event has raised more than $2.8 million to support the ICRG and its research into problem gambling.

Pictured, left to right:

JCM SVP – Sales, Marketing & Operations Dave Kubajak
AGEM President & Chief Executive Officer Daron Dorsey
ICRG President and Secretary Art Paikowsky
ICRG Senior Fundraiser Joshua Belkin
AGA Senior Vice President, Strategic Communications Joe Maloney
Click here to view article

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San Manuel Band of Mission Indians presents a $300,000 donation to the ICRG

We are honored to be part of this important moment on Sunday, October 6th, at the 25th Conference on Gambling and Addiction as the San Manuel Band of Mission Indians presents a generous $300,000 donation to the International Center for Responsible Gaming (ICRG). This funding will support crucial research and programs promoting responsible gaming and gambling addiction prevention.

Proud to stand alongside dedicated leaders and colleagues committed to making a positive impact:

Shawnna Nason, Art Paikowsky, Nicole Scott, Jessica Stops, Joseph Maarango, Jacob Coin, Alberto Jasso, and Thomas LeMasters.

Together, we continue advancing the mission to create safer, healthier gaming environments for all.

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The Revealing Relevance of Responsible Gaming Research

The International Center for Responsible Gaming is a key organization in the battle against problem gambling. As Innovation Group President Michael Soll (l.) notes, its research reveals some of the most pressing issues funded by major industry partners.

Click here to view the full article!
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