Which screening test is commonly used for identifying problem drinking and potential alcohol issues?

The CAGE questionnaire is a widely recognized screening tool specifically designed to identify individuals who may have problems with alcohol consumption. Its name is an acronym derived from the key questions it poses: asking about the need to Cut down on drinking, Annoyance by criticism of drinking, Guilt about drinking, and Eye-openers (drinking in the morning). This simple and straightforward tool is valuable in clinical settings because it can efficiently flag potential alcohol use disorders.

The CAGE questionnaire is particularly effective due to its brevity and focus on behavioral patterns and feelings associated with drinking, making it suitable for brief assessments in various health care contexts. This helps counselors and healthcare providers quickly determine if further evaluation for alcohol dependency is warranted, streamlining the process of identifying those in need of more comprehensive interventions.

While the other tools mentioned serve important purposes in assessing alcohol-related issues, they differ in focus and application. The DSM-5 provides a comprehensive classification system for mental health disorders, including substance use disorders, but is not a screening tool per se. The TWEAK is another screening tool that focuses on alcohol use during pregnancy, making it less general and specific than the CAGE. Similarly, the AUDIT (Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test) is a thorough screening tool that