Vic Study Links Alcohol Use to Higher Gambling Risk in Young Adults, Men

Alcohol consumption and gambling are disturbingly correlated, especially in young people and men, according to a recent report by Victoria’s gambling regulator.

The Victorian Responsible Gambling Foundation found that people who drink heavily on an episodic basis (HED) have a significantly higher propensity to gamble.

Those who reported monthly HED were 3.1 times more likely to gamble than occasional heavy drinkers, who were 1.7 times more likely.

Additionally, the study found a link between alcohol use and the risk of gambling. The likelihood of suffering gambling-related harm increased with alcohol consumption during gaming, from 10.4% to 16.8% for those who drank during play.

It’s interesting to note that demographics did matter. Men were more prone than women to participate in gambling and HED behaviors, while younger people (18–34) and those with higher incomes were more likely to do so.

The results highlight the value of targeted treatments that deal with alcohol consumption and gambling, particularly for high-risk populations.

To address these interrelated issues, the research recommends integrating support services and raising public awareness.

Original Story by: Asian Gaming Brief