New guidelines for alcohol use disorder

In this episode, Drs. Blair Bigham and Mojola Omole delve into the pressing issue of alcohol use disorder (AUD) in Canada with Dr. Evan Wood, the lead author of the “Canadian guideline for the clinical management of high risk drinking and alcohol use disorder” published in CMAJ. 

They explore the concerning prevalence of AUD in Canada, contrasting it with other countries and shedding light on the diagnostic criteria that underscore the significance of assessing clinically significant impairment or distress.

Dr. Wood clarifies the hurdles faced in identifying and treating AUD, highlighting the shortfall in healthcare provider education and resources. He underscores the importance of routine screening for alcohol use by physicians and offers invaluable tips to improve recognition of this pervasive disorder.

Dr. Wood outlines the recommended pharmacotherapies as stipulated in the guideline. He points out the frequency with which ineffective, or even harmful, treatments are prescribed for mood symptoms related to AUD and calls on physicians to follow evidence-based approaches.

Dr. Wood concludes by emphasizing the necessity of constructing a comprehensive system to tackle alcohol use disorder head-on in Canada, fostering a thorough understanding of this widespread health challenge among the medical community.

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