A new study published by the National Bureau of Economic Research (NBER) has shed light on the mortality effects of casinos on Native Americans. The research found that the opening of casinos on tribal lands has had both positive and negative effects on the health and well-being of indigenous communities.
The study, which was conducted by a team of researchers from Harvard University and the University of Maryland, analyzed data from 405 Native American tribes across the United States. The researchers compared mortality rates in tribes that had opened casinos to those that had not, taking into account factors such as income levels, education, and access to healthcare.
The results of the study were surprising. Contrary to popular belief, the researchers found that the opening of casinos actually had a positive impact on the overall mortality rates of Native Americans. In tribes that had casinos, mortality rates were found to be lower compared to those without casinos. This was attributed to the increased economic opportunities and improved living standards that casinos brought to these communities.
However, the study also revealed some troubling findings. While overall mortality rates were lower in tribes with casinos, certain subgroups within these communities experienced higher rates of mortality. For example, young Native American men were found to have higher rates of alcohol-related deaths in tribes with casinos compared to those without. The researchers suggested that this could be due to increased access to alcohol and gambling-related stress.
The study also highlighted the importance of addressing social and economic disparities within Native American communities. Despite the positive impact of casinos on mortality rates, the researchers stressed the need for continued investment in healthcare, education, and social services to ensure the well-being of all members of these communities.
Overall, the findings of this study provide valuable insights into the complex relationship between casinos and Native American health. While casinos have brought economic benefits to many indigenous communities, there are still challenges that need to be addressed in order to ensure the long-term health and well-being of Native Americans across the country.
