Reducing the risk of SIDS in infants

Each year, thousands of parents experience the heartbreak of losing an infant to Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS).  And although there is still no known reason for SIDS, there are opportunities to reduce the risk of these sudden and unexpected deaths in otherwise healthy babies.

“While we’re still baffled by what causes SIDS, we have been able to identify certain common elements that are seen more frequently in babies who die of SIDS,” said Dr. Leah Tattum, a Pediatrician at The Scarborough Hospital.

This research has led healthcare professionals to recommend the following practices to create a safe sleep environment for babies:

• Provide a smoke free environment – before and after birth.
• Always place your baby on his or her back to sleep – during night time and nap time.
• Place your baby to sleep in a crib next to the adult’s bed for the first six months.
• Provide a safe crib environment that has no toys or loose bedding (use only a fitted sheet).

Dr. Tattum also stresses the following facts parents should keep in mind about SIDS:

• It’s not caused by neglect or child abuse.
• It’s not contagious or infectious.
• It’s not hereditary.
• It’s not caused by vaccinations or toxic gases.
• It does not appear to cause a baby suffering.
• It’s no one’s fault.

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