sudden infant death syndrome (sids). sids facts sids claims the lives of almost 3,000 infants in...

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