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• Dr.Tugume Elias
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• 26 March, 2025

Causes of Sudden Infant death

Sudden Infant Death: What Every Parent & Medic Should Know!

 Main Cause: Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) – unexpected death of an infant under 1 year of age with no clear medical reason.

 Biggest Mistake? Wrong Sleep Posture!
 SAFE: Always place the baby on their BACK to sleep.
 DANGEROUS: Prone (stomach) and lateral (side) sleeping positions increase the risk of suffocation and sudden death.

Risk Factors:

• Wrong Sleep Position (Prone & Side Sleeping)
• Overheating (Thick blankets, excessive clothing)
• Soft Bedding (Pillows, soft mattresses, stuffed toys)
• Co-sleeping (Sharing a bed with parents/siblings)
• Exposure to Smoke & Drugs (During pregnancy & infancy)
• Prematurity & Low Birth Weight

 Preventive Measures (AAP Guidelines):
✔ Always put babies to sleep on their BACK until 1 year of age.
✔ Use a firm mattress – NO soft pillows, loose blankets, or stuffed toys.
✔ Let the baby sleep in the parents’ room, BUT in their own crib.
✔ Maintain a comfortable room temperature – Avoid overheating.
✔ Breastfeeding & pacifier use reduce the risk.

 Remember: Supine (back) sleeping does NOT increase choking risk, even for babies with reflux.

Let’s spread the right information & save lives! #SafeSleep #SIDSPrevention