Understanding Alcohol Use Disorder: A Comprehensive Overview

🍺Alcohol use disorder is a spectrum disorder that ranges from mild to severe forms of alcohol dependence.

🚫The stigmatizing words 'addict,' 'addiction,' 'dependence,' and 'abuse' have been replaced by the term 'alcohol use disorder' to destigmatize the condition.

💊Alcohol use disorder is classified into four groups: impaired control, social impairment, risky use, and pharmacological implications.

🌍The prevalence of alcohol use disorder in India is significant, with millions of individuals affected, and their families suffering as well.

📝Assessment of alcohol use disorder can be done using the AUDIT or CAGE questionnaires, which are simple and effective tools for primary care practitioners.

What is alcohol use disorder?

—Alcohol use disorder is a spectrum disorder that includes a range of alcohol dependence, from mild to severe forms. It is classified as a medical disorder by the American Psychiatric Association.

How is alcohol use disorder diagnosed?

—Alcohol use disorder can be diagnosed using assessment tools like the AUDIT or CAGE questionnaires, which assess the frequency and quantity of alcohol consumption, as well as other related symptoms.

What are the symptoms of alcohol use disorder?

—The symptoms of alcohol use disorder can be categorized into impaired control, social impairment, risky use, and pharmacological implications. These symptoms include cravings, tolerance, withdrawal symptoms, and spending significant time obtaining and recovering from alcohol consumption.

What is the prevalence of alcohol use disorder in India?

—According to a study by All India Institute of Medical Science, 5.7 crore people in India have problematic alcohol use, with 2.9 crore being dependent. This indicates a significant prevalence of the disorder in the country.

How can alcohol use disorder be managed?

—The management of alcohol use disorder can involve a combination of medications, counseling, support groups, and lifestyle changes. It is important for individuals with the disorder to seek professional help for a comprehensive treatment plan.

00:00Alcohol use disorder is a spectrum disorder that includes mild to severe forms of alcohol dependence.

02:45The prevalence of alcohol use disorder in India is significant, with millions of individuals affected.

04:11Alcohol use disorder is categorized into impaired control, social impairment, risky use, and pharmacological implications.

07:41Alcohol use disorder can be diagnosed using assessment tools like the AUDIT or CAGE questionnaires.

11:03The AUDIT questionnaire assesses the frequency and quantity of alcohol consumption.

13:06The CAGE questionnaire focuses on cut down, annoyed, guilty, and eye-opener as indicators of alcohol use disorder.