CAGE Questionnaire for Alcohol Problems

Overview

The CAGE questionnaire is used to test for alcohol use disorder in adults. It is not used to diagnose the disease but only to show whether a problem might exist.

The CAGE questionnaire consists of four questions that relate to your use of alcohol:footnote 1

  • Have you ever felt that you ought to C ut down on your drinking?
  • Do you get A nnoyed by criticism of your drinking?
  • Do you ever feel G uilty about your drinking?
  • Do you ever take an E arly-morning drink (eye-opener) to get the day started or to get rid of a hangover ("a little hair of the dog that bit you")?

If you answer "yes," "sometimes," or "often" to 2 or more of the questions, you might have a problem with alcohol. If you think you or someone you care about has an alcohol use disorder, talk with a health professional. Further evaluation by a trained alcohol use disorder counselor might be needed.

Related Information

References

Citations

  1. Saitz R, et al. (2003). Addressing alcohol problems in primary care: A cluster randomized, controlled trial of a systems intervention. Annals of Internal Medicine, 138: 372–382.

Credits

Current as of: November 15, 2023

Author: Healthwise Staff
Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.

This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated, disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. Learn how we develop our content.