CAGE-AID Substance Abuse Screening Tool

The CAGE-AID is a screening tool that includes questions pertaining to alcohol and drug use. It is not meant to be used as a diagnostic tool but only as a means to indicate whether a problem might exist.

When thinking about drug use, include illegal drug use and the use of prescription drugs other than as prescribed.

Cage-Aid Substance Abuse Screening Tool

CHave you ever felt the need to cut down on your drinking or drug use?YesNo
AHave people annoyed you by criticizing your drinking or drug use?YesNo
GHave you ever felt guilty about drinking or drug use?YesNo
EHave you ever felt you needed a drink or used drugs first thing in the morning to steady your nerves or to get rid of a hangover (Eye-Opener)?YesNo

Scoring: Item responses on the CAGE - AID questions are scored 0 for "no" and 1 for "yes" answers, with a higher score being an indication of alcohol and/or drug problems. A "yes" answer to one item indicates a possible substance use disorder and a need for further assessment. A total score of two or greater is considered clinically significant.

Brown RL, Leonard T, Saunders LA, & Papasouliotis O (1998). The prevalence and detection of substance use disorder among inpatients ages 18 to 49: An opportunity for prevention. Preventive Medicine, 27, 101-110.