Rapid Screening Tool for Addiction by Caregivers- A Novel Approach

Addiction is a major public health crisis that affects millions globally, leading to severe physical, psychological, and social consequences. Substance use disorders (SUDs), including alcohol, tobacco, and illicit drug addiction, as well as behavioral addictions such as gambling and internet addiction, often remain undetected until they cause significant harm. Early identification is crucial for timely intervention and treatment, yet many cases go unnoticed due to stigma, denial, or lack of awareness (Volkow et al., 2016).