CAGE Questionnaire Calculator
Screen for problem drinking with the four-question CAGE alcohol questionnaire and score interpretation.
What Is the CAGE Questionnaire?
CAGE is a brief four-item screen for problem drinking. Each letter stands for one question: Cut down, Annoyed, Guilty, and Eye-opener. It is widely used in primary care and emergency settings. Related tools: AUDIT Score Calculator and Braden Score Calculator.
Scoring
Each yes answer scores 1 point. Total score ranges from 0 to 4.
- 0: probably no problem on this screen
- 1: red flag, consider follow-up
- 2 or more: clinically significant, higher likelihood of alcohol use disorder
Clinical Use
CAGE is a screening tool, not a diagnosis. Positive screens should lead to a fuller assessment and discussion of support options.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does CAGE stand for?
Cut down, Annoyed, Guilty, and Eye-opener. Each maps to one question about alcohol use.
Is a score of 1 important?
Yes. One positive answer is considered a warning sign and may warrant further evaluation.
How is CAGE different from AUDIT?
CAGE has four yes/no items and is very quick. AUDIT has more questions and captures quantity and harm in more detail.
Can CAGE diagnose alcohol use disorder?
No. It identifies people who may need a more detailed clinical assessment.
Should the questions be asked exactly as written?
Standard wording improves comparability, but clinicians may adapt language while keeping the meaning intact.