Traumas, including motor vehicle collisions, falls, and gunshot wounds, are the leading cause of death among people under 49.  Arizona’s Level I trauma centers are critical resources for the state’s most severely injured patients. On Sunday, February 5, 2017, the Arizona Trauma Association (ATA) will hold its third annual Tackle Trauma 5K Run / Walk to raise awareness and funds for trauma prevention, education and research efforts statewide.

“Trauma is a disease process and the collaboration among Arizona’s trauma system to improve services, establish research, provide education, and develop injury prevention programs for our communities is an ongoing effort,” says Dr. Alicia Mangram, ATA president.  Receiving care at a verified trauma center can reduce mortality by as much as 25 percent.

The race will be held before the Big Game at Tempe’s Papago Park with check in at 7 am and race time at 8 am. Pre-registration is $35 at www.aztracc.org/tackletrauma5k. On site registration is $45.

The Arizona Trauma Association is a non-profit organization composed of the state’s 10 Level I trauma centers that focuses on improving the delivery of health care to traumatically injured patients throughout the state.Last year, the family friendly event drew over 300 participants. We work with the race organizers and a the chief of plastic surgery at John C. Lincoln Hospital who sees trauma cases on a weekly basis.