Alcohol use disorders: a clinical update.

Abstract

Alcohol use disorders are a significant public health problem. All providers who work with teenagers are likely to encounter youth for whom this is a relevant concern. Routine screening for alcohol use disorders has become the standard of care, and a number of validated, concise screening measures are now available. Youth with alcohol use disorders are unlikely to show the physical stigmata of adult alcohol dependence. Knowledge of risk variables can inform anticipatory guidance and interventions, and all providers can play a helpful role to address problematic use of alcohol.