About the Preventive Intervention Center

In 1992, the College of Public Health established the Preventive Intervention Center (PIC) with the specific goal of conducting health research and clinical trials to ensure future medical treatments are safe and effective. In September 2011, the College of Public Health streamlined operations by absorbing the Lipid Research Clinic (LRC) into PIC. The Lipid Research Clinic opened in 1973 as an academic resource for the College of Medicine at The University of Iowa and then for the College of Public Health in 1999. LRC specialized in studying the effectiveness of new drugs and intervention modalities to prevent the occurrence and progression of atherosclerotic diseases. Between these two clinics, almost 100,000 volunteers have participated in more than 500 research studies aimed at the treatment and prevention of diseases such as cancer, heart disease, osteoporosis, arthritis, and diabetes. We have tested new, investigational medications, hormone replacement therapy, oral contraceptives, dietary supplements, vaccines, and exercise and nutritional needs.

In addition, PIC has continued to partner with the Nutrition Center to include behavioral medicine and research highlighted by diet, exercise, and nutrition lifestyle-change programs used by companies and communities across the country.

The Preventive Intervention Center participates in government-sponsored and pharmaceutical company-sponsored research studies. We proudly draw on the multidisciplinary experience and expertise of University of Iowa faculty from the College of Public Health, College of Medicine, College of Dentistry, College of Liberal Arts, College of Pharmacy, Veterans Administration Hospital, and physicians throughout the state of Iowa.

The Center assists with and performs observational studies and preventive and clinical trials including the following activities: grant and protocol development data management and analysis, population-based and clinical recruitment, phone and clinical screening and evaluation, follow-up evaluation, compliance and protocol adherence, quality control, administration, epidemiology, and regulatory adherence. The Center provides consultation with investigators in the design and with sponsors in facilitating the implementation and conduct of protocols.