Validation of the alcohol use disorders identification test in a Danish hospital setting

Background
Early identification of alcohol problems is important for timely intervention. The Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test (AUDIT) and its shorter version, AUDIT-C, are widely used screening tools. This study tested the effectiveness of recommended AUDIT and AUDIT-C cut-off scores in a hospital setting in Denmark.

Methods
From February to April 2023, data were collected from 300 patients at Odense University Hospital. The study tested AUDIT cut-offs (≥8, ≥16, ≥20) and AUDIT-C cut-offs (≥4, ≥5) against Danish low-risk drinking guidelines and self-reported alcohol dependence criteria. We analyzed the results using various statistical methods.

Results
The average age of participants was 52 years, and 51.3% were male. Fourteen patients met the criteria for alcohol dependence. The AUDIT ≥8 was 56% sensitive and 91% specific for detecting hazardous use. AUDIT ≥16 and ≥20 showed higher sensitivity and specificity for detecting alcohol dependence. The AUDIT-C cut-offs had lower positive predictive values but high negative predictive values.

Conclusion
The AUDIT and AUDIT-C are useful in identifying patients unlikely to have an alcohol problem, but positive results should lead to further assessment.