SIDS Prevention
Modified on Aug 19, 2016
A devastating disorder, SIDS is medically known as sudden infant death syndrome. While the cause of the syndrome is unknown, several risk factors and preventative measures have been identified. One of the most important risk reduction factors is placing a baby on his or her back to sleep.
What is SIDS?
Sudden infant death syndrome can be defined as the unexplained death, typically during sleep, of a seemingly healthy infant. The exact cause of the syndrome is unknown; however, several associated factors have been identified.
Brain abnormalities, low birth weight and respiratory infection have been deemed as physical factors linked to SIDS. Sleeping on the stomach or side, sleeping on a soft surface and sleeping with the parents are known environmental risk factors. Additional contributing factors include the sex of the baby, age, race, and family history of the condition. Mothers under the age of 20 who smoke, use drugs or alcohol and have inadequate prenatal care are also more likely to have babies affected by the condition.
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