FAST and CAGE Alcohol Screening

FAST screening tool

FAST Scoring:

• If score is 0, 1 or 2 on the first question then continue with the next three questions.
• If score is 3 or 4 on the first question – stop here.  This indicates FAST positive.
• An overall total score of 3 or more (on the first question or all four questions) is FAST positive.

If FAST positive: you should go on to ask AUDIT questions:

AUDIT questions

Total Score (all 10 FAST and AUDIT):

• 0-7: lower risk
• 8-15: Increased risk
• 16-19: Higher risk
• 20+: Possible dependence

CAGE Questions

1. Have you felt you needed to Cut down on your drinking?
2. Have people Annoyed you by criticising your drinking?
3. Have you ever felt Guilty about drinking?
4. Have you ever felt you needed a drink first thing in the morning (Eye-opener) to steady your nerves or get rid of a hangover?

Generally, if the answer to 2 or more is yes, this should alert you.

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