Clear language in medicine is crucial for effective communication regarding disease, risk factors, diagnosis, prognosis, treatment, health, and wellness.
Terminology is particularly challenging in addiction medicine due to associated stigma.
Past terminology includes alcoholism, addictionology, and now addiction medicine.
Evolution of Terminology
ASAM Board endorsed the creation of a Descriptive and Diagnostic Terminology Action Group (DDTAG) in 2007 to clarify addiction-related terms.
DDTAG developed 2011 definitions of addiction and related terms for treatment and recovery.
Public understanding of addiction as a chronic brain disease has grown, as has acknowledgment of prevention and harm reduction.
In 2018, ASAM's Board recognized the need for an updated definition of addiction.
Task Force Updates
A Task Force was appointed to update terms related to addiction.
Revised definition created for ASAM’s policy statements.
Recommended retiring transitional terms like medication-assisted recovery (MAR) and medication-assisted treatment (MAT).
Suggested using 'medication' for FDA-approved addiction treatments, recognizing the continued use of MAT in various contexts.
Definition (Adopted September 15, 2019)
Addiction: A treatable, chronic medical disease.
Involves complex interactions among brain circuits, genetics, environment, and life experiences.
Characterized by compulsive substance use or behaviors despite harmful consequences.
Prevention and Treatment: Effectiveness is comparable to other chronic diseases.