Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) is a term that describes the unexplained and sudden death of an infant under one year old. This diagnosis is given when, even after a thorough investigation, including an autopsy, examination of the location where the death occurred, and a review of the baby’s medical history, no cause of death can be determined. It’s a heartbreaking reality for families and a critical area of ongoing medical research.
Researchers are still working to pinpoint the exact causes of SIDS. The prevailing theory is the Triple-Risk Model. This model suggests that SIDS occurs when a vulnerable infant, during a critical developmental period, faces an external stressor. While the specifics of these factors are still being studied, understanding this model helps guide research and preventative measures.
It’s important to understand that not every sudden and unexpected infant death during sleep is SIDS. The broader term Sudden Unexpected Infant Death (SUID) encompasses all such deaths, whether they have a known cause or not. SUID can be due to identifiable reasons like accidents or injuries. SIDS, specifically, is a type of SUID where the cause remains unknown even after investigation. Therefore, SIDS is a diagnosis of exclusion, meaning it’s considered when all other potential causes have been ruled out. Sleep itself is not the cause of SIDS or other sleep-related infant deaths; rather, SIDS is a complex issue that tragically manifests during sleep periods.
SIDS, while devastating, is not the most common cause of infant death, but it is a significant concern. In the United States, approximately 3,000 SUID cases occur annually. Of these, over one-third are attributed to SIDS.1 These statistics highlight the ongoing need for research and public health initiatives focused on understanding and preventing SIDS and other sleep-related infant deaths.
Learn how to reduce the risk of SIDS and other sleep-related infant deaths.
Learn more about the Triple-Risk Model.
