A new statewide study commissioned by the Arizona Department of Gaming (ADG) has highlighted a growing need for expanded gambling harm prevention efforts, with officials identifying several areas where education, treatment and consumer protection can be strengthened as gambling participation continues to rise across the state.
The research, released by the ADG’s Division of Problem Gambling, examined gambling behaviors, attitudes and experiences among Arizona adults. It found that gambling has become a mainstream activity, with approximately 84% of adults reporting they had gambled at least once during the previous 12 months. Around three in ten respondents said they gamble every week.
While the high participation rate was expected following the expansion of regulated gambling, the survey also revealed that gambling-related harm remains a significant concern. Nearly one in five adults were classified as being at moderate or high risk of experiencing gambling problems based on internationally recognised screening measures, while 18% reported experiencing at least one gambling-related harm, including financial, emotional or relationship difficulties.
According to the report, many respondents were unaware of the support services available to people struggling with gambling-related issues. Researchers concluded that increasing public awareness of treatment resources and responsible gambling tools should become a priority for policymakers and industry stakeholders alike.
The study also identified several opportunities to improve prevention efforts. These include expanding public education campaigns, increasing the visibility of responsible gambling messaging, improving access to treatment services and strengthening collaboration between healthcare providers, community organisations and gambling operators. Officials also recommended targeted initiatives aimed at younger adults and other groups that may face a higher risk of gambling-related harm.
Elise Mikkelsen, Director of the Division of Problem Gambling, said the findings demonstrate both the widespread popularity of gambling and the importance of continuing to invest in prevention and education. She noted that greater awareness of gambling-related harm may also be contributing to increased reporting of problems and greater willingness among affected individuals to seek help.
Arizona has continued to place responsible gambling at the centre of its regulatory strategy since legal event wagering launched in 2021. Earlier this year, the state legislature approved additional spending authority for the Department’s problem gambling programmes, while the regulator has also stepped up enforcement against illegal operators through a series of cease-and-desist actions targeting platforms accused of offering unlawful gambling products and exposing consumers, including minors, to unregulated gambling.
The ADG said the latest research will help guide future policy decisions and public health initiatives, providing updated data on gambling participation and the prevalence of gambling-related harm across Arizona. Officials hope the findings will support more effective education campaigns and improve access to prevention, intervention and treatment services as the state’s regulated gambling market continues to develop.