RESUMO
Much attention is focused on individuals who abuse alcohol orare alcohol-dependent. Less attention is given to individuals whose drinking patterns should be of concern, though these individuals may not have met criteria for alcohol abuse or dependence. Alcohol use can be conceptualized as occurring on a continuum. Recognizing patterns of alcohol misuse is important to prevent individuals from consequences that can occur along the continuum. Physicians can help individuals at earlier stages in the continuum through education and firm advice to change drinking patterns. Individuals with a family history of alcoholism are at greater risk of developing alcoholism and should be identified as early in the continuum as possible. The primary care setting is an ideal place to educate and intervene regardless of where on the continuum a patient may be. A vignette is used to illustrate the process of screening, assessment, and follow-up in a primary care setting.
