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The continuing decline in SIDS mortality
Edwin A Mitchell1, Lynne Hutchison, Alistair W Stewart
1Department of Paediatrics, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand. e.mitchell@auckland.ac.nz
Archives of Disease in Childhood
|April 5, 2007
Summary
The "Back to Sleep" campaign significantly reduced sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS). Increased back sleeping among infants likely explains the continued decline in SIDS mortality rates.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Pediatrics
- Epidemiology
Background:
- The "Back to Sleep" campaign led to a significant global reduction in sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS).
- Despite the campaign's success, SIDS mortality rates continued to decline in subsequent years, with the reasons remaining unclear.
- In New Zealand, SIDS mortality decreased by 63% between 1993 and 2004.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the reasons behind the continued decline in SIDS mortality.
- To assess the correlation between infant sleep positioning and SIDS rates.
Main Methods:
- Conducted a postal survey to gather data on infant sleep practices.
- Analyzed changes in the proportion of infants sleeping on their back over time.
- Correlated changes in sleep position with SIDS mortality data.
Main Results:
- The proportion of infants sleeping on their back increased substantially from 24.4% in 1992 to 72.3% in 2005.
- This increase in back sleeping could account for an estimated 39%-48% decrease in SIDS mortality.
- Findings suggest a direct link between the "Back to Sleep" campaign's principles and ongoing SIDS reduction.
Conclusions:
- The widespread adoption of back sleeping is a likely explanation for the sustained decrease in SIDS mortality.
- Continued public health efforts promoting safe infant sleep practices are crucial for further SIDS prevention.
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