SIDS peaks between 1 and 4 months of age, and 90% of the cases take place in the first 6 months of life. Age also plays an important role in SIDS and sleep-related deaths. Interestingly, about 60% of the deaths occur in males and 40% in females. What other SIDS risk factors have been studied? In fact, It has been estimated that, if everyone stopped smoking during pregnancy, up to one-third of SIDS deaths could be avoided. Recent research shows that every cigarette smoked during pregnancy increases your baby's risk of SIDS. We also know that your baby is at higher risk if you smoked or drank alcohol during pregnancy. 8 oz.) are 2 to 3 times more likely to die of SIDS or other sleep-related deaths. Other risk factors cannot be changed.įor example, babies who are born preterm ( premature) or with a low birth weight (under 5 lbs. Some risk factors, including many related to the sleep environment, can be changed to lower your baby's risk. It important to know that risk factors are findings that are associated with an increased or decreased likelihood of SIDS, but are not the cause of the death.

But while we don't yet know exactly what causes SIDS, also called unexplained sudden death in infancy, there are some risk factors we know about.

Other times, such as with sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS), the exact cause can't be determined. Sometimes, the cause is found, such as when bedding or other items near them blocks breathing. babies die suddenly and unexpectedly each year, usuallyĭuring sleep.

Baby hit head on crib board