Government of Canada supports first national guideline on high-risk drinking and alcohol use disorder

published on January 29, 2021 in Government of Canada

High-risk drinking and alcohol use disorder (AUD) can have significant health, social and economic consequences for individuals and communities. However, a lack of research, limited access to substance use specialists, and insufficient training resources mean that AUD can frequently go unrecognized or untreated in Canada.

To providing care to those struggling with this medical condition, today, the Honourable Patty Hajdu, Minister of Health, announced federal funding of more than $1.5 million over three years to the British Columbia Centre on Substance Use (BCCSU) to develop the first National Guideline for the Clinical Management of High-Risk Drinking and Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD). The guideline will help Canadian health care providers quickly identify and address harmful drinking, and treat and support patients throughout their lifetime.

The guideline will contain evidence-based information and resources to help health care providers diagnose and treat AUD, including resources tailored to specific populations, such as pregnant women and Indigenous Peoples…