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Experience with the alcohol use disorders identification test (AUDIT) in Mexico
E Medina-Mora1, S Carreño, J R De la Fuente
1Instituto Mexicano de Psiquiatria, Calzada, México.
Recent Developments in Alcoholism : an Official Publication of the American Medical Society on Alcoholism, the Research Society on Alcoholism, and the National Council on Alcoholism
|September 30, 1998
Summary
The Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test (AUDIT) effectively screens for hazardous and harmful alcohol consumption in diverse Mexican populations. Validated modifications and a short version enhance its utility in various settings, including the workplace.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Epidemiology
- Substance Abuse Research
Background:
- The Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test (AUDIT) was developed by the World Health Organization (WHO) for screening alcohol use disorders.
- Previous research has established the AUDIT's utility in various international settings.
- Adaptation and validation are crucial for effective use in specific cultural and demographic contexts, such as Mexican populations.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe the development and validation of the AUDIT in various Mexican populations.
- To evaluate the AUDIT's performance in nonclinical and workplace settings.
- To assess the prevalence of hazardous, harmful, and dependent drinking patterns and associated consequences in Mexico.
Main Methods:
- Development and adaptation of the AUDIT instrument for Mexican populations.
- Conducting validity and reliability tests across diverse samples.
- Analyzing data from general population, clinical, and workplace settings to determine drinking patterns and consequences.
Main Results:
- The AUDIT demonstrated adequate sensitivity and specificity in Mexican populations.
- The instrument effectively identified both regular hazardous consumption and episodic heavy drinking.
- A shorter version of the AUDIT was developed, suitable for workplace intervention programs, differentiating various risk levels.
Conclusions:
- The AUDIT is a valid and reliable tool for screening alcohol use disorders in Mexican populations.
- The findings highlight significant rates of problem drinking, particularly among males in clinical and workplace settings.
- The validated AUDIT, including its short version, can be effectively utilized for early detection and intervention programs.