Which statement best describes the appropriate use of the CAGE screening in clinical practice?

• A. Screen for smoking addiction
• B. Assess general anxiety
• C. Evaluate eating behavior
• D. Identify potential alcohol dependence

Answer: (D)

CAGE is a quick screening tool used in clinical practice to identify potential alcohol dependence. It consists of four questions that probe whether a patient has felt the need to cut down on drinking, felt annoyed by criticism of their drinking, felt guilty about drinking, or used alcohol first thing in the morning (eye-opener). A positive result suggests possible alcohol use disorder and prompts a more thorough evaluation with a fuller instrument like the AUDIT or DSM-5 criteria. It is not intended to screen for smoking addiction, general anxiety, or eating behaviors, which require different screening tools. While helpful in busy settings, CAGE can miss some individuals with less obvious or early‑stage problems, so a negative result doesn’t completely rule out alcohol-related issues if suspicion remains.