Institute For Prevention of Addictions (IPA)

The IPA conducts research focused on the causes and extent of the use and abuse of alcohol, drugs, other addictions and health risk behaviors. Based on this research we provide specialized resources, services and consultations to church, government and private agencies on policies and initiatives designed to prevent youth risk behavior. The IPA also works with programs whose focus is on prevention, policy, education, and research and evaluation.

 We are supported by Andrews University and the General Conference of the Seventh-day Adventist Church, with specific projects sponsored by various other Foundations, Governmental and Private agencies. We work closely with the Department of Health Ministries at the General Conference and are affiliated with the International Commission for the Prevention of Alcoholism & Drug Dependency (ICPA). We strive to work with organizations whose goals harmonize with our philosophies and objectives. 

The objectives of the IPA are:
  • Engage in research that investigates the causes and prevention of addictive and other high-risk behaviors.
  • Evaluate policies designed to promote healthy behaviors and prevent health risk behaviors.
  • Foster evidenced based educational programs focused on the prevention of addiction and other high-risk behaviors.
  • Develop and evaluate prevention materials and programs based on evidenced based research.
  • Cooperate with the GC Health Ministries Department and the ICPA to disseminate scientific research that promotes policies at international, national and local community levels designed to reduce substance use and other health high-risk behaviors.
  • Collaborate with other organizations, universities, groups, or professionals within the Church and society who seek to promote a drug free and healthy life style.
  • Train students (in multiple universities and disciplines) to conduct research on the causes and prevention of substance abuse and encourage new generations of researchers and clinicians in substance abuse research.