University of Maryland Signals Alarm Over Increase in Gambling Disorders
Summary
Researchers at the University of Maryland’s Maryland Center of Excellence on Problem Gambling (School of Medicine) report a measurable rise in gambling-related harm since the legalisation of online sports betting in 2022. Using a survey of 3,600 respondents, the study finds the prevalence of gambling disorder in Maryland increased from about 4% pre-legalisation to roughly 5.7% post-legalisation. Dr Christopher Welsh, the centre’s medical director, warns that compulsive gambling mirrors other addictions in physiology and social impact, with elevated risks including withdrawal symptoms, family harm and higher suicide rates.
Key Points
- Study surveyed 3,600 people to assess gambling behaviours and harm.
- Reported increase in gambling disorder prevalence from ~4% to ~5.7% after legalisation of online sports betting (2022).
- Researchers link the rise to the proliferation of omni-channel and online gambling options.
- Dr Christopher Welsh emphasises gambling addiction shares physiological and behavioural features with substance addictions, including withdrawal and severe social consequences.
- Gambling-related harms may include financial strain, family breakdown and increased suicide risk.
- Some argue legalisation and regulation may simply expose and better identify people who need help, rather than causing a true rise in addiction.
- Similar concerns have been raised in other US states, such as West Virginia, especially among youth and student-athletes.
Why should I read this?
Quick heads-up: if you work in policy, public health or the gambling industry, this study’s numbers are a buzzer. It flags that easier access to betting equals more people showing serious harm — or at least more getting noticed. Read it to know whether you need to factor gambling harm into planning, regulation or support services right now.
Context and Relevance
This article matters because it ties the expansion of online and omni-channel betting to a measurable uptick in problem gambling in a US state following legalisation. That pattern is relevant for regulators, health services and operators across jurisdictions considering or adapting sports betting and iGaming rules. The findings feed into broader debates: does legalisation increase harm, or does it simply reveal previously hidden problems through better monitoring and treatment pathways? Either way, the study underlines the need for robust harm-prevention measures, funding for treatment and targeted outreach (especially for young people).
