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The CAGE Questionnaire is a standard, widely published 4-question screening tool for problem drinking: Cut down, Annoyed, Guilty, Eye-opener. Each "yes" answer scores 1 point, for a total 0-4 score. This calculator is for general reference and educational purposes only — it is not a medical diagnosis. Consult a doctor or qualified professional for an actual assessment.
How it works
Answer the 4 standard CAGE questions with yes or no. The tool sums the "yes" answers and compares against the published threshold.
- Enter have you ever felt you should Cut down on your drinking?.
- Enter have people Annoyed you by criticizing your drinking?.
- Enter have you ever felt Guilty about your drinking?.
- Enter have you ever had a drink first thing in the morning (an Eye-opener) to steady your nerves or get rid of a hangover?.
- Click Calculate to see your results.
Examples
Answering "yes" to 2 of the 4 questions
CAGE score = 2/4 — at the commonly cited threshold suggesting further evaluation.
Who should use it
- A very quick self-screening check before a doctor visit.
- Clinical and public health education about brief screening tools.
Industry applications
- Primary care screening
- Addiction medicine education
Advantages
- Extremely quick — just 4 yes/no questions.
- One of the most widely used and studied brief alcohol screening tools.
Limitations
- Less detailed than AUDIT or AUDIT-C, which capture quantity and frequency information.
- Self-reported answers may under- or over-estimate actual drinking patterns.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Treating a positive screen as a diagnosis rather than a signal to seek further evaluation.
- Answering based on a single unusual incident rather than an honest overall pattern.
Best practices
- Answer each question honestly and independently for the most meaningful score.
Tips
- If your score suggests further evaluation, bring it up directly with a doctor rather than self-diagnosing.