Alcohol Use Screening (CAGE)

The CAGE questionnaire (Ewing, 1984) is the best-known and briefest screening for alcohol problems: four "have you ever…" questions — Cut down (felt you should cut down), Annoyed (been annoyed by criticism), Guilty (felt guilty), Eye-opener (had a morning drink). 2 or more "yes" answers is the threshold for a more detailed clinical assessment. CAGE catches dependence and abuse, but not "risky use" without complaints — the AUDIT exists for that. It's filled out about "ever" (over one's lifetime), so a high score is a reason to assess the current situation, not a verdict.

Before you start

This is a lifetime screening for alcohol problems, not a diagnosis. The ≥2 "yes" threshold points to the need for a more detailed assessment, not to dependence. CAGE catches dependence better than risky use; a low score doesn't mean "everything's fine" — if you're concerned about your drinking, see a specialist.