Early Detection and Screening

Early detection aims to identify if a person has a form of unhealthy alcohol use, an umbrella that includes hazardous or risky alcohol use, problems due to alcohol, and alcohol dependence. The term screening refers to a proactive and/or systematic approach to early detection which aims to identify those who are most likely to have unhealthy alcohol use and to benefit from an intervention. The objective of early detection is to provide an appropriate initial intervention and to identify persons who may require more comprehensive assessment and more detailed treatment or referral to such treatment. Screening is often combined with an initial brief, time-limited intervention aimed at reducing consumption especially among those with hazardous or risky drinking patterns. Screening methods have been evaluated in a wide range of settings.