What does the AUDIT-C measure?
AUDIT stands for Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test, a questionnaire developed by the World Health Organization. The C in "AUDIT-C" stands for Consumption: this short version, used in the tool above, only keeps the first 3 questions of the full AUDIT questionnaire (which has 10), focused on the frequency and quantity of consumption. It is the most widely used screening tool in primary care because it is quick while remaining reliable.
What is a "standard drink"?
The notion of a standard drink, used in the last 2 questions of the test, is often poorly understood by the general public. It corresponds to roughly 10 grams of pure alcohol, whatever the type of beverage: a glass of wine (10 cl, about 12%), a beer (25 cl, about 5%), a shot of spirits (3 cl, about 40%) or a glass of champagne each contain approximately the same amount, because the volumes usually served are adjusted to the drink's alcohol content. A drink poured "at the bar" is not always a standard drink, especially at home where pours are often more generous.
At-risk use, harmful use, dependence: different degrees
This test's result distinguishes 3 levels, but it is useful to know the clinical nuances behind them: at-risk use is a consumption pattern that exposes to future harm without necessarily having caused any harm yet; harmful use is a consumption pattern that has already caused documented consequences (on physical or mental health, or on social and professional life); and dependence adds a loss of control over consumption, with withdrawal symptoms upon stopping. The AUDIT-C alone cannot reliably distinguish between these situations: a high score warrants a discussion with a healthcare professional to clarify the situation.
Where to find help
In France, Alcool Info Service (0 980 980 930, local-rate call, 7 days a week) offers free, confidential listening, information and referral, whatever your level of consumption. Elsewhere, your doctor can point you to a local equivalent, and can also assess your situation and refer you, if needed, to an addiction specialist.
