Gambling is Part of Everyday Life in Oregon—But Risk Often Goes Unnoticed
As March Madness approaches and sports betting activity increases across Oregon, statewide data suggest that gambling-related harm often goes unnoticed, and many people who could benefit from support never seek help.
The findings come from the 2024 Oregon Gambling Attitudes, Behaviors, Health, and Risk Survey, conducted by the Oregon Gambling Research Center, part of the Oregon Council on Problem Gambling (OCPG). The study was supported by community partners including the Oregon Health Authority and the Oregon State Lottery.
Gambling is a routine part of life for many Oregonians. From lottery tickets and casino visits to sports betting and online games, gambling shows up in everyday moments across the state. According to the survey, 68% of Oregon adults reported gambling in the past year, a rate similar to pre-pandemic levels. Most participants reported engaging in more than one type of gambling activity, reflecting how normalized gambling has become across demographic groups.
“This survey helps us understand how gambling fits into everyday life for many Oregonians,” said Glenn Yamagata, executive director of the Oregon Council on Problem Gambling. “The goal is not to characterize gambling as inherently harmful, but to recognize where risk shows up and how we can respond early.”
Sports Betting and Elevated Risk
Major sporting events drive increased betting activity, and the survey found that sports betting is among the activities most strongly associated with elevated gambling risk, particularly among individuals participating in multiple types of wagering.
Using a widely recognized screening tool, researchers found that approximately 6% of Oregon adults were at high risk for gambling-related harm. Screening tools measure risk rather than clinical diagnosis but help identify where prevention and education efforts may be most needed.
“These results provide important context for understanding how gambling behaviors are evolving,” said Dr. Jeff Marotta, president of Problem Gambling Solutions, Inc., the consulting firm that analyzed the survey data for the Oregon Council on Problem Gambling.
Key Findings from the Survey
The survey identified several patterns with implications for prevention and public awareness:
- Early exposure matters: Fourteen percent of adults reported gambling before age 18, a factor associated with higher risk later in life.
- Health and Financial Stress are connected to risk: Gambling-related risk was higher among individuals reporting mental health concerns, trauma exposure, chronic illness, substance use, or financial strain.
- Stigma and uncertainty limit help-seeking: While most Oregonians recognize gambling addiction as similar to use disorders, fewer believe treatment is effective or know how to access free services.
When asked how they would help someone with a gambling problem, respondents most often cited online searches and helplines, rather than professional services suggesting gaps in awareness about available support.
Awareness Is Prevention
As we enter Problem Gambling Awareness Month, the findings highlight the importance of early recognition, open conversation, and knowing where to turn for help, especially during times of increased gambling activity like March Madness.
“Gambling-related harm often shows up quietly: through stress, financial strain, or relationship conflict,” Yamagata said. “Stigma can keep people from reaching out until problems escalate. Awareness and early intervention can make a real difference.”
Free, confidential help for gambling-related concerns is available statewide through Oregon Problem Gambling Resource OPGR (opgr.org), including helplines, online tools, and community-based services.
The full survey report is available at:
https://oregoncpg.org/research/