Penn State research finds problem gambling on the rise in Pennsylvania
New Penn State research indicates a rise in problem gambling in Pennsylvania, coinciding with increased online gambling revenue.Summary
A recent study by Penn State University’s Social Science Research Institute, commissioned by the Pennsylvania Department of Drug and Alcohol Programs (DDAP), reveals a concerning trend: problem gambling is increasing in Pennsylvania alongside the growth of online gambling. The 2025 Pennsylvania Interactive Gaming Assessment found that 2.5% to 6.4% of adults are problem gamblers, and 25.4% to 29.9% are at-risk gamblers. This research highlights a 50% increase in online gambling participation since 2024, with up to 30% of adults engaging in it in 2025. Notably, calls to the National Problem Gambling Helpline mentioning online gambling as a primary concern surpassed 50% in 2025, and self-exclusion program enrollments rose by 65%. The DDAP plans to expand services, including the introduction of case management, to support individuals struggling with problem gambling, offering assistance with financial counseling, childcare, and healthcare.
(Source：Pennlive)