Which screening tool is commonly used to identify risky alcohol use, and what is its core purpose?

• A. CAGE; to determine if someone has a substance use disorder
• B. PHQ-9; to assess depression
• C. GGT; to measure liver enzymes
• D. AUDIT (Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test); to identify hazardous or harmful drinking patterns

Answer: (D)

Screening tools for alcohol use aim to detect risky patterns before problems develop. The AUDIT, or Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test, is designed for this purpose: it screens for hazardous or harmful drinking by asking about how much and how often you drink, whether drinking has caused concern or dependence symptoms, and whether it has led to negative consequences. The score helps identify individuals who may need brief advice, more assessment, or referral for help.

The other options don’t fit as well. CAGE focuses more on whether someone might have an alcohol use disorder or dependence, not the broader range of risky drinking patterns. PHQ-9 is a depression screen, not about alcohol use. GGT is a liver enzyme test that can indicate liver stress from heavy drinking, but it isn’t a screening tool for identifying risky drinking behavior.