$Unique_ID{BRK00137}
$Pretitle{}
$Title{Is There Any Quick Way to Screen Someone for Alcoholism?}
$Subject{alcohol screening test CAGE Mental Emotional Alcoholism Alcoholic
Alcoholics behavior behaviors abuse dependent drinking drink drinks addiction
addictions dependency special procedure procedures lifestyle lifestyles}
$Volume{E-23,P-23}
$Log{}

Copyright (c) 1991-92,1993   Tribune Media Services, Inc.


Is There Any Quick Way to Screen Someone for Alcoholism?


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QUESTION:  Is there any quick way to screen someone for alcoholism?

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ANSWER:  Yes, there are several screening tests for alcoholism.  The standard
test is called the Michigan Alcoholism Screening Test, which has been used by
psychologists and psychiatrists for several years to help spot people who
abuse or are dependent on alcohol.
     Recently, a new screening test has been developed that is quicker to use.
It is called the CAGE test, which stands for words important to the four
questions it consists of.  The four questions are:  Have you ever tried to
"C"ut back on drinking?  Have you ever been "A"nnoyed at criticism of your
drinking?  Do you feel "G"uilty about drinking?  Do you use alcoholic drinks
as an "E"ye-Opener?
     The CAGE test can be used by health care workers to quickly screen
patients who abuse alcohol and can be especially helpful in screening pregnant
women who may be drinking too much during pregnancy.  As with any other test
or questionnaire, it is not foolproof, but it can help screen for alcoholic
patients who would otherwise go unrecognized.

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The material contained here is "FOR INFORMATION ONLY" and should not replace
the counsel and advice of your personal physician.  Promptly consulting your
doctor is the best path to a quick and successful resolution of any medical
problem.