Protocolo de detección del consumo excesivo de alcohol

Alcohol abuse is an important medical problem that frequently is not recognized. Alcohol consumption should be explored every two years in adult population or when an excessive alcohol intake is suspected. Questionnaires are the best methods for detect alcohol abuse. In the Spanish population the most validated questionnaires are the “Systematized Questionnaire on Alcohol Consumption” (ISCA) and the “Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test” (AUDIT), also available in a short form. Biomarkers are not recommended for the screening of general population, but can be useful in the follow up of alcoholic patients. When alcohol abuse is detected, patients should be sent to a specialist for diagnosis and treatment of an alcohol dependence syndrome.