CDT values
CDT values <1.7 are counted as non positive
Results reater than 1.6 are therefore used as a marker for alcohol abuse (not alcoholism). It is used in risk assessment to assess whether an individual would turn up to fly with alcohol in their system. In the UAE (specifically EK as the small "dr" who has driven it works there) it is used inappropriately in a way no other CAA inc the FAA does.
However Dr FR wrote her letter regards this as no doubt she and all the other western Drs don't agree with its application. However on the other side a high CDT result does give some indication as to the amount and regularity of an individuals drinking. If your reading is +3 then something is pretty much amiss. But once again it has to be cross referenced with GGT & MCV plus a couple of other blood results (CDT,GGT & MCV should not be used as the three stand alone results).
When FR mentioned that if you go on holiday and 'let your hair down' for the two weeks that are really your own to do what you like then come back and get tested for whatever reason they decide to test you for this week then there is a possibility that your CDT may be above the limit.
You WILL be sent for an assessment. You WILL be found to have abused alcohol. You WILL be dismissed. There are no second chances to be helped in the UAE anymore.
There are several individuals who have, in the past, got help when they needed it. There are several individuals who got help that didn't need it. And are still being 'helped'