SIDS (Sudden Infant Death Syndrome)

Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) is the unexpected, unexplained death of a seemingly healthy baby under one year old, often occurring during sleep. While the exact cause is unknown, research suggests it may involve abnormalities in brain regions that control breathing and arousal from sleep, or vulnerabilities related to sleep environment. Risk factors include sleep position (like sleeping on the stomach), soft bedding, overheating, and exposure to tobacco smoke. To reduce risk, experts recommend placing infants on their backs to sleep, using a firm mattress, keeping the sleep area free of soft objects, and avoiding smoking around the baby.