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• Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) is the most common cause of death of infants older than one month and younger than one year old. SIDS occurs most often between two and four months of age.Medline Plus: Sudden Infant Death Syndrome

• Fast Facts

  1. Also called: Crib death
  2. Unknown cause
  3. Using a pacifier while sleeping may lower risk by 90%Scientific American: Pacifier Greatly Reduces Risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (December 9, 2005)
  4. Rates have declined since early 1990sCDC: Sudden Unexplained Infant Death Initiative
  5. Approximately 2,000 SIDS deaths each yearCDC: Sudden Unexplained Infant Death Initiative
  6. Babies of smoking mothers have increased riskMayoClinic.com: Sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS)
  7. More common in malesMayoClinic.com: Sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS)
  8. More common premature infantsMayoClinic.com: Sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS)

• Prevention

  Pediatricians encourage letting babies always sleep on their backs rather than their sides or stomachs. They suggest keeping the crib free from soft blankets or toys and using a firm sleeping surface with a tight fitting sheet. Keeping the baby's room from getting too hot is also encouraged.Medline Plus: Sudden Infant Death Syndrome

• Disclaimer

  This page is not a substitute for medical advice. If you are concerned about sudden infant death syndrome, please consult your doctor.

• Related Mahalo Pages

  Infant Mortality | Dehydration | Vaccines | Cribs | Crib Recall

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