Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS)
Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) claims the lives of nearly 7 babies every day, which is almost 2,500 infants in America each year. SIDS is one of the leading causes of death among infants from one month through one year of age in the U.S. (CJ Foundation for SIDS)
SIDS is also referred to as "crib death," as many babies who die of SIDS are found in their cribs. Most infants affected are between two months and four months old. Although health care professionals don't know what causes SIDS, there are ways to reduce the risk.
These include:
Placing babies on their backs to sleep, even for short naps - "tummy time" is for when babies are awake and someone is watching
Using a firm sleep surface, such as a crib mattress covered with a fitted sheet
Keeping soft objects and loose bedding away from sleep area
Making sure babies don't get too hot - keep the room at a comfortable temperature for an adult
(Source: NIH)
The CJ Foundation for SIDS
SIDS deaths occur unexpectedly and quickly to apparently healthy infants, usually during periods of sleep.
SIDS is not caused by suffocation, choking, or smothering.
SIDS is not caused by child abuse or neglect.
SIDS is not contagious.
SIDS occurs in families of all races and socioeconomic levels.
SIDS cannot be predicted or prevented and can claim any baby, in spite of parents doing everything right.
Resources:
Last updated 12-20-2017