CAGE Questionnaire
Answer 4 yes/no questions (Cut down, Annoyed, Guilty, Eye-opener) to screen for alcohol use problems. Free online CAGE alcohol screening tool with instant results and charts.
Tick the box if the statement applies to you. Answer honestly — results are only visible to you.
About This Calculator
The CAGE Questionnaire is a widely-used, clinically validated screening tool designed to help identify potential alcohol use problems. Developed by Dr. John Ewing in 1984, it consists of just 4 simple yes/no questions that focus on behavioral aspects of drinking rather than quantity consumed. The name CAGE is an acronym derived from key themes in each question: Cut down, Annoyed, Guilty, and Eye-opener.
This alcohol screening tool is one of the most commonly used brief assessments in primary care, with a sensitivity of approximately 90% when using a cutoff score of 2. Each Yes answer scores 1 point (maximum 4). A score of 2 or more is clinically significant and indicates a strong possibility of alcohol abuse or dependence, warranting further professional evaluation.
The CAGE questionnaire focuses on lifetime use — when answering, think of your whole life and all experiences with alcohol. Unlike direct questions about drinking quantity (which are often met with denial), the CAGE questions probe the behavioral consequences of drinking, making them more sensitive for detecting problem drinking patterns.
Regional Notes
India: Alcohol consumption is a growing concern. The National Mental Health Survey (2015-16) found that about 4% of Indians meet criteria for alcohol use disorders. Help is available through government de-addiction centers and the national helpline (14446). Standard drink definition in India: 10g of pure alcohol.
United States: The NIAAA defines low-risk drinking as no more than 14 standard drinks per week for men and 7 for women (one standard drink = 14g alcohol). The SAMHSA National Helpline (1-800-662-4357) provides 24/7 free confidential support.
United Kingdom: UK Chief Medical Officers recommend no more than 14 units per week for both men and women (one unit = 8g alcohol). Drinkline (0300 123 1110) offers free confidential support.
Disclaimer: This screening tool is for educational purposes and cannot replace a professional medical assessment. If you are concerned about your alcohol use, please consult a healthcare provider.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the CAGE questionnaire stand for?
CAGE is an acronym where C stands for Cut down, A for Annoyed by criticism, G for Guilty about drinking, and E for Eye-opener (morning drinking). Each letter represents a question about problem drinking behaviors.
How is the CAGE questionnaire scored?
Each Yes answer scores 1 point, each No scores 0. Total score ranges from 0 to 4. A score of 2 or more is clinically significant and may indicate alcohol abuse or dependence. Even a score of 1 is considered a red flag warranting further investigation.
Is the CAGE questionnaire free to use?
Yes, this CAGE questionnaire is completely free to use with no registration or hidden charges. Results are private and only visible to you on your device.
Can the CAGE questionnaire diagnose alcoholism?
No, the CAGE questionnaire is a screening tool, not a diagnostic test. It helps identify potential alcohol problems and indicates when further professional evaluation is needed. A score of 2 or more suggests a strong possibility of alcohol abuse but should be followed up with a comprehensive clinical assessment.
How accurate is the CAGE questionnaire?
The CAGE questionnaire has a sensitivity of approximately 90% for detecting alcohol abuse when using a cutoff score of 2. Its specificity is also around 90%, making it one of the most widely used brief alcohol screening tools in clinical practice.
Where can I get help for alcohol problems in India?
In India, you can seek help at government de-addiction centers, psychiatry departments in medical colleges, or NGO-run counseling centers. The Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment runs the National Help Line for de-addiction at 14446 (toll-free). You can also consult a psychiatrist at any major hospital.
Where can I get help for alcohol problems in the US?
In the United States, call the SAMHSA National Helpline at 1-800-662-4357 (24/7, free, confidential). You can also visit the NIAAA Alcohol Treatment Navigator online to find evidence-based treatment options near you.
Where can I get help for alcohol problems in the UK?
In the UK, call Drinkline at 0300 123 1110 (free, confidential). You can also speak to your GP who can refer you to local alcohol support services. We Are With You (formerly Addaction) and Alcohol Change UK also provide free support across England, Scotland, and Wales.