New guidelines issued by the US have asked the physicians to look for the symptoms of alcohol abuse while examining a patient. Often medical practitioners pay attention to the illness and not to other lifestyle factors that could trigger long term illnesses.

The new guidelines have been issued with the aim of reducing alcohol abuse in the country. In the past eight years, it is for the very first time when the guidelines of the alcohol screening have been updated.

However, it has come to light that about 30% of the Americans facing drinking problems easily pass the screening. It seems like the guidelines of the screening had been ineffective in addressing the alcohol issues. But, it is hoped that the new guideline will help physicians in focusing over patients with drinking problems.

The Dean of the University of Iowa’s College of Public Health, Susan Curry said that the new guidelines are handy and are less burdening. Susan Curry said, “These sessions can be conducted in person or over the phone. We’re talking about two or three sessions lasting 5 to 15 minutes each. It’s broadly feasible that doctors can do this”. Doctors are required to co-operate so that drinking problems of the people could be addressed.