Sudden Infant Death Syndrome | UC Davis Childrens's Hospital

What is Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS)?

SIDS definition: the sudden, unexplained death of an infant under the age of one.

Statistics:

• The United States continues to rank 50th in overall infant mortality rates internationally despite educational efforts about safe sleep practices.
• SIDS is the leading cause of death between the ages of one month and one year.
• There are about 3,400 SIDS cases annually in the United States.

Modifiable Infant Risk Factors for SIDS:

• Exposure to second hand smoke

Non-modifiable Infant Health Disparities:

• Prematurity
• Low birth weight
• Family History of SIDS
• Babies between two and three months of age
• Males
• African Americans
• Native Americans

Babies with the above risk factors/disparities are at an increased risk of SIDS compared to other infants.

Modifiable Maternal Risk Factors for SIDS:

• Limited or no prenatal care
• Maternal drug, alcohol, and/or cigarette use

Non-modifiable Maternal Health Disparities:

• Younger than the age of 20

Babies whose mothers have the above risk factors/disparities are at an increased risk of SIDS compared to other infants.

When unsafe sleeping conditions are added to the above risk factors/disparities, your baby's risk for SIDS is heightened.