Sudden Infant Death Syndrom Awareness Month

Every year, thousands of apparently healthy infants are found dead in their cribs. October is Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) Awareness Month. Approximately 1 out of every 2,000 children born in the United States each year will be killed by SIDS before their first birthday. While physicians are still not sure what causes SIDS, it is generally believed that some infants simply fall into a deep sleep and because of certain brain development problems or malfunctions, are unable to awaken themselves to consciousness. Children born prematurely are at a greater risk for being struck by SIDS largely because of brain development issues.

While SIDS is not yet entirely preventable, there are several precautionary steps parents should take to reduce their infant’s risk of SIDS death. Research shows that putting your baby to sleep on his or her back lessens the likelihood that she or he will be unable to wake from an unconscious state of sleep. Keeping your babies crib clear of blankets, coverings, pillows and toys also decreases the risk of SIDS. Pregnant women are urged to make regular trips to the doctor and keep a nutritious diet to lessen the chances of giving birth prematurely.

Whether you’re the parent of a newborn or have an infant in your life you care about, spend some time raising awareness for SIDS in your own community through the use of SIDS awareness buttons & badges as well as thoughtful discussion.