CAGE questionnaire
Also written as: CAGE — Cut down, Annoyed, Guilty, Eye-opener
Brief four-question screening tool for alcohol use disorders using Cut down, Annoyed, Guilty, and Eye-opener criteria.
Full Definition
The CAGE questionnaire is a widely used, brief screening instrument for identifying alcohol use disorders in clinical settings. The acronym represents four key questions: Have you ever felt you should Cut down on your drinking? Have people Annoyed you by criticizing your drinking? Have you ever felt Guilty about your drinking? Have you ever had a drink first thing in the morning to steady your nerves or get rid of a hangover (Eye-opener)? Two or more positive responses suggest the possibility of an alcohol use disorder and warrant further assessment. The CAGE is particularly valuable in neuropsychiatric settings where alcohol-related brain damage, withdrawal syndromes, or comorbid substance use may complicate diagnosis and treatment. Its brevity and ease of administration make it suitable for routine clinical screening.
Usage
Usage note: Always explain the acronym when first mentioned; two or more positive responses indicate need for further evaluation.
In Context
- "The CAGE questionnaire revealed two positive responses, prompting referral for comprehensive substance abuse evaluation." — Primary care screening
- "All patients admitted to the neuropsychiatric unit completed the CAGE questionnaire as part of routine assessment." — Hospital protocol