Medical Report: Sports betting is increasing gambling addiction, studies show

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PHILADELPHIA (KYW Newsradio) — The legalization of sports betting is relatively new, but the impact is being felt.

It has become difficult to view a sporting event without being bombarded with advertisements encouraging fans to bet. As of the fifth anniversary of legalized sports betting, $220 billion had been spent.

However, there is a major downside. A report from the National Council on Problem Gambling said calls to their hotline have increased by 15%, and the number is growing.

A new report in the British Medical Journal found young adult males are highly susceptible to gambling addiction and, not surprisingly, a growing number are becoming victims.

Get more medical reports from Dr. Brian McDonough.

​​KYW Newsradio’s Medical Reports are sponsored by Independence Blue Cross.

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