The role of environmental factors in SIDS

The role of environmental factors in SIDS

Environmental factors, such as the infant’s sleeping environment and exposure to certain substances, may play a role in the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS), also known as crib death. 

SIDS is the sudden and unexpected death of an infant under one year of age, which cannot be explained after a thorough investigation.

Environmental factors that may increase the risk of SIDS include exposure to tobacco smoke, overheating, and sleeping on a soft or irregular surface. 

Infants who are exposed to tobacco smoke, either before or after birth, are at increased risk of SIDS compared to infants who are not exposed to tobacco smoke. 

In addition, infants who are placed in environments that are too warm or who are dressed in too many layers are at increased risk of SIDS compared to infants who are kept at a comfortable temperature.

Other environmental factors that may increase the risk of SIDS include sleeping on a waterbed or other soft surface and using soft bedding, such as pillows, comforters, or quilts. 

These factors may cause the infant to sink or become trapped, which can interfere with their breathing.

To reduce the risk of SIDS, it is important to avoid exposing infants to tobacco smoke and to use a firm, flat surface for sleep, such as a crib or bassinet. 

It is also important to keep the infant’s sleeping environment cool