Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) is the sudden, unexpected death of an infant under 12 months of age. Rates of SIDS have decreased significantly since the Back to Sleep campaign was launched in 1994, but SIDS remains the top cause of death in infants between one month and one year of age. Each year about 4,000 babies die unexpectedly while sleeping.
What Causes SIDS?
Unfortunately, there is no clear answer. However, experts have identified risk factors that contribute to SIDS, such as: brain abnormalities, low birth weight, respiratory issues, babies who are exposed to cigarette smoke, and family history of SIDS. Boys are more likely to die of SIDS than girls. Infants who sleep on their sides or tummies, overly soft bedding, loose blankets, and those who sleep with their parents are more likely to die of SIDS.
Preventative Steps
There’s no way to prevent SIDS completely, but steps can be taken to help prevent this tragedy:
- Get quality prenatal care during pregnancy
- Do not smoke while pregnant
- Do not expose baby to cigarette smoke after birth
- Place baby on back to sleep
- Ensure that the baby’s sleeping environment is safe
- Keep stuff animals, blankets, and other items out of the crib
- Consider placing the baby’s crib in your bedroom
- Do not allow the baby to sleep in an adult bed, on the couch, or in a chair
- Prevent the baby from overheating; dress in light layers
- Prevent respiratory infections; try to avoid crowded spaces and ensure that people wash their hands before holding or touching the baby
- Talk about these steps with the baby’s care providers.
If your infant has been injured due to a defective product, contact the Schuerman Law office today. Schuerman Law has been working with personal injury claims for over 40 years. John Schuerman will compassionately advocate for injured individuals as well as their families while fighting for full compensation of their claims. Schuerman Law offers evening and weekend appointments in addition to home and hospital visits. Schedule a free consultation today by calling 1-800-274-0045.
