SUDDEN INFANT DEATH SYNDROME (SIDS)
SIDS FACTS SIDS claims the lives of almost 3,000 infants in the U.S. each year Nearly 9 babies every day Occurs unexpectedly & quickly to apparently healthy infants, usually during their sleep Most victims are between 2 & 4 months of age
SIDS occurs in families of all races & socioeconomic levels SIDS can not be predicted or prevented SIDS is NOT caused by suffocation, choking, immunizations or vaccinations. It is not contagious, nor is it a result of neglect or child abuse It can, & does, claim any baby, in spite of parents doing everything right CJ Foundation for SIDS
Risk Factors Born to a teen mother Lacking prenatal care Exposed to tobacco, alcohol, illegal drugs (especially cocaine) before birth Born more than 2 weeks premature
Born at low birth weight (less than 5 ½ lbs.) Part of a multiple birth Having an older sibling who died of SIDS Being male
Six Steps to Reduce the Risk 1.Make sure baby sleeps on it’s back 2. No smoking near baby 3. Make sure baby doesn’t get too hot 4. Use a firm mattress-NO pillows or waterbeds 5. Take good care of mom & baby-Get prenatal care, NO drugs or alcohol, talk to the doctor 6. Breast feed baby CJ Foundation for SIDS