It is very refreshing to read the latest study that now has swept through the medical community regarding SIDS and sleeping environments. 568 SIDS deaths in the San Diego SIDS/Sudden Unexplained Death in Childhood Research Project from 1991 through 2008 were reviewed concluding that multiple risk factors are responsible for the remaining ~2,500 SIDS death each year, not just back sleeping. FINALLY!
The article explains that a safe sleeping environment is paramount. Just to review, a safe sleeping environment is one in which a baby sleeps alone in a crib with a properly fitted, firm crib mattress devoid of soft, plush items such as stuffed animals or thick, heavy blankets. Included in the term "safe sleeping environment" includes not smoking around the baby or in the room where the baby sleeps.
It goes on to pinpoint prematurely as a risk factor for "SIDS" as well. Prematurely is on the rise with an increase in 9% since 2000. A baby born premature is at risk for complications. This makes prematurity/low birth weight the second leading cause of infant mortality in the United States. It is perplexing why a premature infant with complications leading to mortality is sometimes labeled as "SIDS". Shouldn't this be labeled "complications with prematurely" since the cause of death is known? Remember that by definition, SIDS is an "unknown" cause of death. Just FYI, the number one cause of infant mortality is congenital defects with heart defects leading the pack. Sudden Infant Death Syndrome is the third.
It is not in my professional repertoire to say, "I told you so!" so instead, I will refer you to the book The Truth About Tummy Time: A Parent's Guide to SIDS, the Back to Sleep program, Car Seats and more. I am just thrilled that we are heading in the right direction in protecting our youngest and most precious members.
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