SIDS and Other Sleep-Related Infant Deaths: Updated 2016 Recommendations for a Safe Infant Sleeping Environment
Date
2016
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Pediatrics
Abstract
Approximately 3500 infants die annually in the United States from sleep- abstract
related infant deaths, including sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS;
International Classifi cation of Diseases, 10th Revision [ICD-10], R95), illdefi
ned deaths (ICD-10 R99), and accidental suffocation and strangulation
in bed (ICD-10 W75). After an initial decrease in the 1990s, the overall death
rate attributable to sleep-related infant deaths has not declined in more
recent years. Many of the modifi able and nonmodifi able risk factors for SIDS
and other sleep-related infant deaths are strikingly similar. The American
Academy of Pediatrics recommends a safe sleep environment that can
reduce the risk of all sleep-related infant deaths. Recommendations for a
safe sleep environment include supine positioning, the use of a fi rm sleep
surface, room-sharing without bed-sharing, and the avoidance of soft
bedding and overheating. Additional recommendations for SIDS reduction
include the avoidance of exposure to smoke, alcohol, and illicit drugs;
breastfeeding; routine immunization; and use of a pacifi er. New evidence
is presented for skin-to-skin care for newborn infants, use of bedside and
in-bed sleepers, sleeping on couches/armchairs and in sitting devices,
and use of soft bedding after 4 months of age. The recommendations and
strength of evidence for each recommendation are included in this policy
statement. The rationale for these recommendations is discussed in detail
in the accompanying technical report
Description
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Article
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Keywords
infant death, SIDS, policy statement, infant sleeping environment
Citation
TASK FORCE ON SUDDEN INFANT DEATH SYNDROME. (2016). SIDS and Other Sleep-Related Infant Deaths: Updated 2016 Recommendations for a Safe Infant Sleeping Environment. Pediatrics, e20162938.