ICRG Conference to Highlight Latest in Gambling Research

The International Center for Responsible Gaming (ICRG) will host its 27th Annual Conference on Gambling and Addiction at the Venetian Expo in Las Vegas on September 27-28, 2026. This event will present the latest scientific research focused on gambling prevention, player protection, treatment, and responsible gambling practices, offering valuable insights for players, treatment providers, and regulators alike.

The conference gathers researchers, treatment providers, public health professionals, responsible gambling specialists, industry leaders, regulators, and policymakers. Their discussions will focus on topics that directly affect players and those vulnerable to gambling-related harm.

A key topic will be the expansion of sports betting and the introduction of new gambling products. The event aims to explore consumer protection strategies that can keep pace with these developments, ensuring safer gambling environments for players. This is particularly relevant as sports betting continues to grow in the USA and globally.

The conference will also address the links between gambling, mental health, and substance use. Understanding these connections is essential for developing effective prevention and treatment methods to reduce harm among players.

Sessions will highlight Indigenous and tribal approaches to healing, prevention, and community response. These discussions will provide insights into culturally sensitive strategies that support players from Indigenous and tribal communities.

Advances in artificial intelligence and data science will be examined for their potential to improve player protection. These technologies could enhance the identification of risky gambling behaviors, enabling earlier intervention and support for players at risk.

Translational neuroscience research will be presented to explain the biological mechanisms underlying gambling risk. This knowledge may help tailor future prevention and treatment approaches to individual needs.

Responsible gambling communication and implementation strategies will be discussed to improve how operators and regulators promote safer gambling practices. Effective communication helps players make informed decisions and access support when needed.

The conference will feature scientific discoveries shared through poster sessions and Lightning Poster Talks, offering attendees access to cutting-edge research. Notable speakers include Sally Gainsbury from the University of Sydney, Lia Nower from Rutgers University, Timothy Edson from Cambridge Health Alliance, Alex Kresovich from NORC at the University of Chicago, and Bryan Singer from the University of Sussex. Organizers plan to announce 25 additional experts in the coming weeks.

Continuing education credits are available for professionals through organizations such as The Association for Addiction Professionals, The National Board of Certified Counselors, The American Psychological Association, and The International Problem Gambling and Gaming Certification Organization. This ensures that knowledge gained at the conference can be applied in clinical and prevention settings.

For players and consumers, the conference signals ongoing efforts to improve protections and support for those who gamble. The research presented aims to inform policies and tools that reduce harm and promote safer gambling experiences.

Players interested in learning more or registering for the conference can visit the ICRG official announcement.

For additional information on responsible gambling initiatives and player protection, see our coverage on Responsible Gambling and the latest updates in USA gambling regulations.

Related industry news includes MGM Resorts International’s recent silence on a buyout offer by a company led by billionaire Barry Diller, as reported by CDC Gaming. This highlights ongoing corporate developments within the gambling sector that may indirectly affect market dynamics and player experiences.

Samantha Gleeston