Which instrument is considered the most well-known screening tool for alcohol dependence?

The CAGE questionnaire is widely recognized as one of the most well-known screening tools for alcohol dependence due to its simplicity, brevity, and effectiveness in identifying potential alcohol use disorders. It consists of just four questions, making it easy for both patients and practitioners to use in various settings. The questions focus on key behavioral indicators of alcohol dependence, such as the need to cut down on drinking, annoyance when questioned about drinking, feelings of guilt about drinking, and the use of alcohol in the morning, which may indicate a pattern of dependency.

CAGE's widespread use and recognition in both primary care and addiction treatment settings highlight its effectiveness as a screening tool. While other instruments like AUDIT, SBIRT, and the Michigan Alcohol Screening Test also play important roles in screening and assessing alcohol use, CAGE remains particularly well-known and is often used as a first-line tool due to its straightforward approach and strong validation in clinical practice.