Alcohol use screening and case finding: screening tools, clinical clues, and making the diagnosis

Abstract

This article presents an evidence-based approach to screening and case finding for alcohol use disorders in primary care. Problematic alcohol use by both adults and adolescents is considered. For clarity, this evidence-based presentation is divided into 6 sections: (1) epidemiology of alcohol use disorders, (2) associated health problems, (3) US Preventive Services Task Force screening recommendations, (4) screening/case finding instruments, (5) screening/case finding strategies, and (6) summary. This article reviews the state-of-the-art, evidence-based concepts and practices for screening and case finding for alcohol use disorders among adults and adolescents in primary care settings.