The USPSTF recommends screening for unhealthy drug use in which population?

The USPSTF recommends screening for unhealthy drug use in which population?

• A. Adolescents 12 to 17 years
• B. Children under 12 years
• C. Adults 21 years or older
• D. Adults 18 years or older

Answer: (D)

The main point is that screening for unhealthy drug use is recommended for adults who are 18 years and older in primary care, with brief intervention and referral to treatment as appropriate. This broad, universal approach recognizes that drug use can be present across the adult age range and that early detection improves outcomes. Unhealthy drug use includes both illicit drugs and nonmedical use of prescription medications. Using validated screening tools helps identify use that patients might not volunteer, and when identified, brief counseling or intervention can reduce use and related harms, with referrals for more intensive treatment if needed. The other age groups aren’t the target of this USPSTF recommendation, and limiting screening to those aged 21 and older would miss 18- to 20-year-olds who are included in the guideline.

The main point is that screening for unhealthy drug use is recommended for adults who are 18 years and older in primary care, with brief intervention and referral to treatment as appropriate. This broad, universal approach recognizes that drug use can be present across the adult age range and that early detection improves outcomes.

Unhealthy drug use includes both illicit drugs and nonmedical use of prescription medications. Using validated screening tools helps identify use that patients might not volunteer, and when identified, brief counseling or intervention can reduce use and related harms, with referrals for more intensive treatment if needed.

The other age groups aren’t the target of this USPSTF recommendation, and limiting screening to those aged 21 and older would miss 18- to 20-year-olds who are included in the guideline.