Kindbridge Research Institute has published research indicating elevated levels of gambling-related harm among a sample of US first responders, with 44% of respondents meeting criteria for problem gambling.
The study, conducted by EPIC Global Solutions and funded through a Colorado Division of Gaming grant, surveyed 507 firefighters, police officers, emergency medical technicians, paramedics and rescue personnel.
Of those surveyed, 94.5% reported gambling during the previous 12 months, while a further 39% were classified as being at risk of gambling problems.
Firefighters recorded the highest levels of harm within the sample. Some 49% met problem gambling criteria, compared with 42% of police officers. Among firefighters, 38% reported gambling at least two days per week, compared with 28% of police respondents.
The findings also identified an association between gambling risk and mental health. Half of participants screened positive for possible PTSD-related symptoms, while first responders reporting no PTSD symptoms were substantially less likely to meet or approach problem gambling criteria.
Military experience was another factor associated with increased risk. The report found first responders with current or previous military experience were more likely to record higher levels of gambling harm, with the strongest association among respondents currently serving in the military.
The research used online surveys and included screening measures intended to improve data reliability. Of 788 initial responses, 281 were excluded following reliability checks, leaving the final sample of 507 current first responders.
Kindbridge Research Institute has an existing research focus on gambling-related harm among military personnel and veterans through its 50x4Vets program. The nonprofit said its research is intended to inform public health policy, treatment approaches and gambling regulation.
The report was released at the start of Responsible Gaming Education Month, which runs throughout September as an American Gaming Association initiative focused on responsible gambling education. Its findings are also scheduled to be presented at EASG 2026 in Copenhagen on September 9.
In August, FanDuel and Kindbridge expanded their responsible gambling partnership, building on a relationship established in 2024 that provides assessments, education and behavioral health support. More than 6,000 FanDuel customers completed a voluntary Kindbridge survey in March examining gambling and mental health.
Kindbridge Research Institute also researches gambling-related harm among veterans, young people and athletes
