SIDs is the Leading Cause of Death in Infants

	Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDs) Is Leading Cause Of Death In Infants

Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDs) is the sudden, unexplained death of an infant under the age of one year after all known possible causes have been ruled out. Often called crib death, SIDs claims the lives of more than 2,500 American children a year and is the leading cause of death of infants less than one year old. "SIDs occurs in all types of families, regardless of race or socioeconomic level," says Dr. Beth Farmer, pediatrician for Clark Memorial Hospital. "There are no warning signs for parents to predict SIDs. However, researchers have learned that placing infants on their backs when they sleep significantly reduces the risk." Since the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommended placing infants on their backs to sleep, SIDs deaths dropped from an annual average of 6,000 cases to about 2,500 in 1999. Dr. Farmer suggests other ways to reduce the risk of SIDs, including: Making sure your baby sleeps on a firm mattress or other firm surface. Avoid fluffy blankets, stuffed toys, pillows, or placing your baby on a waterbed. Adjusting the temperature so that your baby is not too warm, usually at a comfortable temperature for you. Recent information on infants who develop flat heads when sleeping on their backs has many parents concerned, but Dr. Farmer stresses this is an over-reaction to a correctable problem. "The recommendation by the AAP is to place infants on their backs only when they sleep. While they are awake, they should be placed on their stomachs to enhance development. This should eliminate the chance of flat head occurring." Dr. Farmer also recommends talking to your physician about SIDs. For more information, call 283-2852. Or, to e-mail a question to our Women's Health Coordinator, visit www.clarkmemorial.org and choose Ask A Nurse.
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