Definition Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) is the sudden, unexplained death of an apparently healthy infant <1 year of age, usually during sleep, that remains unexplained even after: Thorough history Complete autopsy Examination of the death scene It’s often called “crib death” or “cot death.” 🔹 Epidemiology Peak age: 2–4 months Rare after 6 months, very rare after 1 year More common in males Higher incidence in winter (likely due to respiratory infections + overheating) 🔹 Prevention (The “Safe Sleep” Guidelines) 🟢 Back to sleep (always place baby on the back, not stomach or side) 🟢 Firm sleep surface (crib mattress, no soft bedding or toys) 🟢 Room-sharing without bed-sharing 🟢 Avoid overheating (light clothing, no heavy blankets) 🟢 No exposure to smoke, alcohol, or drugs 🟢 Breastfeeding reduces risk 🟢 Pacifier use during sleep may reduce risk 🟢 Regular antenatal care for mother
🔹 Risk Factors Infant Factors Prematurity or low birth weight Male sex Recent respiratory infection Multiple births (twins, triplets) Maternal Factors Young maternal age (<20 yrs) Smoking, alcohol, or drug use during pregnancy Inadequate antenatal care Environmental/Sleep Factors Prone sleeping position (on the stomach) Soft bedding, pillows, stuffed toys Bed-sharing with parents, especially if smoking/alcohol involved Overheating during sleep 🔹 Pathophysiology (Proposed Mechanisms) Triple Risk Model: SIDS occurs when three factors overlap: Vulnerable infant (brainstem abnormality affecting arousal/cardiac/autonomic control) Critical developmental period (2–4 months) External stressor (prone sleep, soft bedding, overheating, smoke exposure) Many infants who die of SIDS show subtle abnormalities in brainstem serotonin pathways, which regulate arousal from sleep.