Overview

• The task force’s draft grades universal adult screening for unhealthy alcohol use as a B recommendation, encompassing all adults and pregnant persons.
• Brief behavioral counseling is endorsed for adults who screen positive for risky drinking based on moderate net benefit and linked to an average reduction of 1.6 drinks per week.
• Screening and counseling for adolescents aged 12 to 17 received an I statement due to insufficient evidence to assess benefits and harms.
• Health professionals and the public can submit comments on the draft guidance through September 2, 2025.
• The task force calls for further research to validate screening instruments like the USAUDIT and to evaluate intervention effectiveness.