SUDDEN INFANT DEATH SYNDROME

Question 1

What is the lay term for sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS)?

Answer 1

Cot death

Question 2

Before what age do most cases of sudden infant death syndrome occur?

Answer 2

Before 6 months

Question 3

What are the risk factors for sudden death infant syndrome?

Answer 3

Premature baby

Low birthweight

Male

Maternal smoking during gestation

Passive smoking

Lying on front during sleep

Overheating at home

Co-sleeping especially on sofa or chair under the influence of alcohol

Question 4

What can be done to reduce the risk of sudden infant death syndrome?

Answer 4

Avoid risk factors where possible

Always place baby on their back

Place baby in the “feet to foot” position (with their feet touching the end of the cot

Don’t cover your baby’s head with the blanket

Use a mattress thats firm, flat and waterproof

Breastfeed baby if you can

Question 5

How many babies die of sudden death infant syndrome in the UK every year?

Answer 5

300

Question 6

How many babies are born in the UK every year?

Answer 6

Almost 700,000