A study reveals an alarming rise in sleep-related infant deaths (SUID) in the U.S., with rates increasing by nearly 12% from 2020 to 2022. While overall infant mortality rates have decreased, disparities persist, with Black, Native American, and Pacific Islander infants experiencing higher death rates compared to their white and Asian counterparts.
Sleep-related deaths are categorized under sudden unexpected infant death syndrome (SIDS) or other causes, including accidental suffocation. Many factors contribute to these risks, such as premature birth, illness, or environmental hazards like secondhand smoke. Parents can help reduce SUID risk by ensuring safe sleep environments—placing babies on their backs in cribs, bassinets, or portable play yards with firm mattresses and fitted sheets—and avoiding loose bedding, toys, or bumpers.
The study highlights a stagnation in these rates since the 1990s, coinciding with national campaigns to promote safe sleep practices. However, recent concerns suggest potential links to environmental factors such as the COVID-19 pandemic, maternal opioid use, and increased social media awareness of unsafe sleep habits. Experts emphasize the need for ongoing vigilance and advocacy to address these challenges in the U.S., where disparities in healthcare access remain significant.
The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends safe sleep practices at home, noting that even adults can inadvertently contribute to hazards by allowing babies to return to work after a babysitter’s absence. Parents are encouraged to verify product safety through resources like saferproducts.gov and consult healthcare providers for personalized advice.
This study underscores the urgent need for further research and community efforts to address rising sleep-related infant deaths and reduce disparities in mortality rates across ethnic groups.
Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2025/01/27/well/mind/sids-suid-infant-deaths.html