How to Reduce the Risk of SIDS








SIDS Facts


SIDS is the leading cause of death in babies after 1 month of age.


More SIDS deaths happen in colder months.


African-American babies are twice as likely to die from SIDS than white babies.


Because many SIDS babies are found in their cribs, some people call SIDS "crib death." But cribs do not cause SIDS.

Source: National Institute of Child Health and Human Development

The National Center for Health Statistics recorded 2,523 SIDS deaths in the United States in 2000, a considerable drop from 1990 when 5,417 SIDS cases were reported. Medical experts attribute this decline in SIDS cases to growing public awareness resulting from health initiatives, such as the "Back to Sleep" campaign, that educate parents on the possible causes of SIDS and how to avoid this tragedy.



To significantly reduce the risk of SIDS:



  • Always place your baby on his or her back to sleep. This is the safest sleep position for a healthy baby. Make sure everyone who cares for your baby - childcare providers, relatives, babysitters - knows this.
     

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