CAGE Alcohol Screening
Answer each question honestly. The CAGE questionnaire is a rapid assessment for identifying potential alcohol dependence.
Have you ever felt you should Cut down on your drinking?
Have people Annoyed you by criticising your drinking?
Have you ever felt Guilty about drinking?
Have you ever had a drink first thing in the morning (Eye-opener) to steady nerves or get rid of a hangover?
CAGE score
0
Range 0–4
Interpretation
Negative screen
No positive responses. Continue low-risk drinking and monitor over time.
Suggested next step: Repeat annually or if drinking patterns change.
How to Use This Calculator
Answer all four questions
Reflect on your lifetime drinking—CAGE focuses on “ever” responses, not just the last year.
Recognise cut-off thresholds
Two or more “Yes” answers suggest alcohol dependence with high sensitivity.
Plan follow-up
Positive screens should trigger the full AUDIT or DSM-5 clinical assessment and discussion of treatment resources.
Formula
CAGE score = Number of “Yes” responses (0–4)
Interpretation:
- 0: No evidence of dependence
- 1: Possible problem drinking; monitor and counsel
- ≥2: Positive screen for alcohol dependence
Full Description
The CAGE questionnaire is a quick screening tool used in primary care and emergency departments. Its four questions target core dependence features: desire to cut down, annoyance by criticism, guilt, and eye-openers. Sensitivity improves in clinical populations but may miss hazardous drinking in women or light drinkers—combine with quantity-frequency measures (e.g., AUDIT-C). Positive results should prompt comprehensive assessment, motivational interviewing, and discussion of treatment pathways.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can CAGE be used for past-year drinking?
Yes, but it was validated for lifetime use. Clarify timeframe when counselling patients.
Does it work for women and older adults?
Sensitivity is slightly lower in women and older adults; pair with AUDIT-C for better detection of hazardous use.
What happens after a positive screen?
Perform a full assessment, evaluate withdrawal risk, and discuss harm reduction or detoxification as needed.
Can it be self-administered?
Yes, but results should be reviewed with a healthcare professional. Encourage honest responses for best guidance.