위험 음주자의 선별을 위한 한국어판 Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test(AUDIT-K)의 최적 절단값

Optimum Cut-Off Score for Screening of Hazardous Drinking Using the Korean Version of Alcohol Use Disorder Identification Test(AUDIT-K)

Objects：Through this study, we intended to set up new cut-off score for the screening of hazardous drinking using the Korean version of alcohol use disorders identification test (AU-DIT-K). Methods：A total of 1,100 subjects were enrolled in this study. Questionnaires about drinking patterns, AUDIT-K, CAGE and NAST (National Alcohol Screening test) were col-lected. The cut-off scores of AUDIT-K for hazardous drinking were calculated and determined by area under the Receiver Operating Characteristic (ROC) curve. Pearson’s correlation test was applied to validate the test and re-test data. Results：Suggestible cut-off scores based on drinking frequency and amount, the AUDIT-K for screening the hazardous drinking would be 11 for men and 8 for women. However, we further proposed the CAGE 1 point as a reference value and concluded that cut-off scores of 10 for men and 6 for women were more appropriate in screening of hazardous drinking in Korean subjects. According to these scores recommended limits for normal drink-ing behavior among Koreans would 13 standard drinks per week for men and 6 standard drinks per week for women. Conclusion：The lower cut-offs of 10 for men and 6 for women suggest that nationwide a more vigorous effort in screening for hazardous drinking is needed in order to prevent alcohol abuse and hazardous consequences.