Sudden infant death syndrome

Alternative names:

crib death; SIDS

Prevention:

The incidence of SIDS has dropped significantly (by almost one-half) since the medical community has asked parents to PLACE INFANTS ON THEIR BACK OR SIDE WHEN SLEEPING (American Academy of Pediatrics - April 1992). Enough data now has been collected to show that this simple procedure is capable of reducing the risk of SIDS dramatically. Putting babies to sleep (naps included) on their back,(or right side) instead of their stomach has drastically decreased the incidence of SIDS. Coincidentally, with sleeping on the back, the incidence of environmentally induced head shape changes has increased just as dramatically.

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission released a statement in April 1999 saying that "as many as 900 infant deaths each year are still associated with suffocation in soft bedding" They recommend babies being placed on a firm, tight fitting mattress and removing all comforters, etc. (for complete details, contact The Office of Information and Public Affairs in Washington, DC 20207) In the past, for homes in which there has been a previous sibling death from SIDS home apnea (breathing) monitors have been recommend but have not brought down the incidence of SIDS. The use of home monitors has largely stopped. Until the nature of the disease is fully understood complete prevention will not be a reality.
Recommendations from other countries also include:

• Do not let your baby become too hot.
• Keep your baby in a smoke-free environment.
• Breastfeed your baby. (breast feeding has been shown not to decrease the incidence of SIDS, however, it does decrease the incidence of some upper respiratory infections which may influence the development of SIDS)
• Do not lay your baby on pillows, bean bags, or sheepskin mattresses.
• Put your baby to sleep on its back

Symptoms:
There are no symptoms. Babies who die of SIDS do not appear to suffer or struggle.