SIDS
Sudden Infant Death Syndrome is the death of an infant that remains unexplained after a complete autopsy, death scene investigation, and review of medical history.
- SIDS is the number one cause of death for infants between the ages of one month and one year.
- SIDS is sometimes known as “crib death,” which strikes over 2,500 families each year. As many as 2,000 others die suddenly and without explanation.
- More babies die of SIDS than die of AIDS, cystic fibrosis, childhood cancer, pneumonia, child abuse, and childhood heart disease during their first fourteen years.
For safe sleep practices for your infant, follow these guidelines from the American Academy of Pediatrics and NICHD.
- Back to sleep for every sleep.
- Bumper pads should not be used in cribs.
- Pregnant women should receive prenatal care.
- Avoid smoke exposure during pregnancy and after birth.
- Avoid alcohol and illicit drug use during pregnancy and after birth.
- Breastfeeding is recommended.
- Consider offering a clean, dry pacifier at nap time and bedtime.
- Avoid overheating.
- Infants should be immunized by recommendations of the AAP and the Center for Disease Control and Prevention.
- Avoid commercial devices marketed to reduce the risk of SIDS.
- Do not use home cardiorespiratory monitors as a strategy to reduce the risk of SIDS.
- Supervised, awake tummy time is recommended to facilitate development and minimize the development of the flathead.
More information can be found at www.nichd.nih.gov/SIDS or www.sidsfla.org, and also by calling toll-free 1-800-SIDS-FLA.
Links for Safe Sleep:
