Final Recommendation Statement:

Screening for Unhealthy Drug Use

Final Recommendation Statement: Screening for Unhealthy Drug Use

The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force released today a final recommendation statement on screening for unhealthy drug use. That Task Force found that clinicians should ask adults about their drug use and connect people who have a problem to care. More research is needed to make a recommendation for teens. To view the recommendation, the evidence on which it is based, and a summary for clinicians, please go here. The final recommendation statement can also be found in the June 9, 2020 online issue of JAMA.

The Final Recommendation Statement Is Available

FINAL RECOMMENDATION SUMMARY

See the full statement

Population

Recommendation

Grade

Adults age 18 years or older

The USPSTF recommends screening by asking questions about unhealthy drug use in adults age 18 years or older. Screening should be implemented when services for accurate diagnosis, effective treatment, and appropriate care can be offered or referred. (Screening refers to asking questions about unhealthy drug use, not testing biological specimens.)

Adolescents

The USPSTF concludes that the current evidence is insufficient to assess the balance of benefits and harms of screening for unhealthy drug use in adolescents. See the "Practice Considerations" section for suggestions for practice regarding the I statement.

WHY THIS MATTERS

"The physical, mental, and social effects of drug use can be grave for both individuals and families,” says Task Force vice chair Karina Davidson, Ph.D., M.A.Sc. “The good news is that primary care clinicians can help by asking adults about their drug use and providing a connection to treatment and support for those who need it.”