How it's calculated
One point for each 'yes' answer across 4 questions (Cut down, Annoyed, Guilty, Eye-opener), for a total of 0-4.
Interpretation
| Score | Interpretation |
|---|---|
| 0-1 | Lower likelihood of a clinically significant alcohol problem |
| ≥ 2 | Suggests a clinically significant alcohol problem — further assessment warranted |
Clinical use
- A brief, widely used bedside screen for problem drinking, easily incorporated into a routine history.
- A positive screen (score ≥2) should prompt a fuller assessment (e.g. AUDIT or AUDIT-C, a detailed drinking history) rather than a standalone diagnosis.
- Performs less well for detecting binge or heavy episodic drinking without dependence features — other tools may be more sensitive in some populations (e.g. younger patients, women).
Frequently asked questions
What does CAGE stand for?
Cut down, Annoyed, Guilty, Eye-opener — the four screening questions.
What CAGE score indicates a problem?
A score of 2 or more is the commonly used threshold suggesting a clinically significant alcohol problem warranting further assessment, though even a single 'yes' can be clinically relevant depending on context.
Is CAGE a diagnostic tool?
No — it's a screening tool designed to prompt further assessment, not to diagnose alcohol use disorder on its own.
References
- Ewing JA. Detecting alcoholism: the CAGE questionnaire. JAMA. 1984;252(14):1905-1907.
- Mayfield D, et al. The CAGE questionnaire: validation of a new alcoholism screening instrument. Am J Psychiatry. 1974.