The National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG) has reported a surge in gambling addiction among American college students, with three out of four students engaging in legal or illegal gambling activities.
This statistic indicates a higher prevalence among college students compared to the general adult population, with an estimated 2% to 3% of adults facing problem gambling, whereas college students' rate is estimated to be up to 6%.
The NCPG attributes this increase to the legalization of betting and online casinos across various states. The organization urges colleges to take proactive measures to mitigate the risks associated with gambling on campuses, emphasizing the susceptibility of students to gambling harm due to exposure to video games and academic stress.
The legalization of gambling within universities by the US Supreme Court in 2018 is seen as a contributing factor to the growing issue.
