October is SIDS Awareness Month, which shines a spotlight on the mysterious syndrome.
Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) is the sudden, unexplained death of a baby younger than 12 months of age that doesn’t have a known cause even after a complete investigation. These deaths often happen when the baby is asleep or in the sleeping area. SIDS is the leading cause of death among babies under one.
While causes of SIDS are still being researched, risk factors do exist. Factors that may place babies at higher risk of SIDS include the following:
- Sleeping on their stomachs or sides
- Sleeping on too soft of a surface, with fluffy blankets or toys around
- Overheating while sleeping
- Having a mother who smokes during pregnancy or any indirect exposure from any persons smoking around the infant
The single most effective action that can lower a baby's risk of SIDS is to place the baby to sleep on his or her back. The simple catch phrase “Back to Sleep” is a reminder to always put a baby on his or her back to sleep. The baby’s sleeping space should be kept free of blankets, stuffed animals, toys, and other items that place infants at risk for suffocation.
Parents should also make sure that babysitters, grandparents, and other caregivers are also aware of safe sleep practices.
For more information on SIDS, visit safetosleep.nichd.nih.gov.
For more information about caring for infants, contact your installation New Parent Support Program.