Vice Chair of the Board of Regents, Jack L. Fortner | The University of New Mexico
UNM Professor Joshua Grubbs' research on the connection between sports betting and binge drinking has been published in the prestigious journal JAMA Network Open. Grubbs' study, funded by the International Center for Responsible Gaming, analyzed data from over 4,000 adults across the U.S. to investigate the relationship between sports wagering and alcohol misuse.
Grubbs emphasized the significance of his findings, stating, "The sports gamblers, just by the fact that they are sports gamblers, are substantially more likely to be reporting high levels of binge drinking." He highlighted the concerning trend of increased alcohol consumption among individuals who engage in sports betting.
Moreover, Grubbs pointed out the cyclical relationship between sports gambling and drinking, noting that winning or losing bets may prompt individuals to drink, leading to a continuous cycle of gambling and alcohol consumption. He also expressed concerns about the risks associated with online sports betting, which has made access to gambling easier and potentially exacerbating alcohol-related problems.
Notably, Grubbs underscored the importance of responsible gambling regulations and the need for increased awareness around the link between sports betting and alcohol use. He suggested that messaging regarding alcohol consumption should be integrated into gambling settings to minimize harm.
Furthermore, Grubbs emphasized the need for federal funding for gambling research, as gambling is a public health concern with clear connections to substance use problems. Despite the lack of federal funding, he remains committed to studying the impact of gambling on individuals in New Mexico and finding ways to address the needs of gamblers in the state.
In conclusion, Grubbs' research sheds light on the complex relationship between sports betting and binge drinking, urging for a comprehensive approach to mitigate the potential risks associated with these behaviors.
