As one of the four mission components, prevention education has always been an important priority with the Brain Injury Association. BIA has dedicated extensive time and resources to educating the general public about brain injury using a wide range of public awareness initiatives. BIA also fulfills the role of educator for individuals with brain injury, family members and professionals by offering training opportunities, seminars, conferences and publications. Advocating on behalf of its constituents, BIA works to obtain the support of local, state and national government bodies. Funding is always a critical element in the organization and maintenance of any project that BIA expends considerable time and effort to secure funding for research, treatment and prevention programs in the field of brain injury.
Brain injury is the single largest cause of death and disability among young people.
In the United States, brain injury can be a result of motor vehicle collisions, falls, sports and recreational incidents, child and spousal abuse, Shaken Baby Syndrome and violence. One baby, child or adult sustains a brain injury every 15 seconds. Brain injury and its physical and emotional consequences impact entire families and whole communities. These sites can provide a variety of TBI services for individuals with moderate to severe injuries with emphasis on acute care and long-term community transitional services. Individuals with brain injury who have completed intensive acute TBI rehabilitation at the lead centers are often referred to network sites for long-term follow up closer to their homes.