SIDS Remains a Threat to Babies, CDC Study Says

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A new report released by the Centers for Disease Control says at least 3,500 babies in the United States die each year from sleep-related deaths which includes sudden infant death syndrome, also known as SIDS,  accidental suffocation, and deaths from unknown causes.

According to the report, there was sharp decline in sleep-related deaths in the 1990s but the declines have slowed down.

“Unfortunately, too many babies in this country are lost to sleep-related deaths that might be prevented,” said CDC Director Brenda Fitzgerald, M.D., in a statement. “We must do more to ensure every family knows the American Academy of Pediatrics recommendations.”

To prevent sleep-related incidents, Fitzgerald said babies should be put to sleep on their backs, without any toys or soft bedding.  She also recommends babies sleep in their own crib and for parents to not share a bed with their babies.

Safe sleep practices recommended by the American Academy of Pediatrics includes:

• Placing the baby on his or her back at all sleep times – including naps and at night.
• Using a firm sleep surface, such as a safety-approved mattress and crib.
• Keeping soft objects and loose bedding out of the baby’s sleep area.
• Sharing a room with baby, but not the same bed

For more information about the CDC’s study, click here.

There are about 3,500 sleep related deaths among US babies each year. Learn more in new #VitalSigns report. https://t.co/2sZ1M6EATy pic.twitter.com/eYXHgWi5tD

— CDC (@CDCgov) January 9, 2018

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