Opinions

DATE: January 8, 2006

Letters to the Editor
Raleigh News and Observer
[email protected]

Dear Editor:

Though extremely tragic, the recent infant death reported by the N&O (Katrina family loses infant to SIDS - Jan. 5) presents an opportunity to shed light on sudden and unexpected infant deaths.

First, the story's headline prematurely attributes the death to Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS). A SIDS diagnosis can take up to three months and is one of exclusion, in which all other causes of death are completely ruled out.

According to the National Association of Medical Examiners this is achieved through a death scene investigation, review of the infant and family's medical history and complete autopsy. Initially, many "crib deaths" have the appearance of SIDS but upon further review are attributed to other causes of death including suffocation.

Second, this is an opportunity to remind parents and caregivers of the dangers of SIDS and that infants born prematurely or with a low birthweight are at a higher SIDS risk. Placing a baby on its back to sleep, eliminating exposure to secondhand smoke and maintaining a room temperature where the baby sleeps between 68 and 75 degrees can help reduce the risk of SIDS.

Additionally, placing a baby to sleep in his or her own crib or bassinet that has no pillows, stuffed animals or excess bedding is a way caregivers can create a "safe sleep" environment.

Each year more than 1,000 North Carolina babies die before reaching their first birthday. Families affected by infant death can access grief and bereavement support from qualified counselors at their local health department.

Amon F. Marstiller
North Carolina Healthy Start Foundation
Raleigh

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