Infant deaths due to Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) have reached an annual average of about 3,500 a year, according to a new report from the Centers for Disease Control, reports Consumer Affairs.
Although that number represents an overall decrease in the number of sleep-related infant deaths since the 1990s, the CDC says the rate of SIDS deaths is no longer declining.
The agency says its new analysis of data suggests parents can do more to prevent accidental deaths from sleep-related causes.
Findings from the analysis revealed:
- One in 5 mothers place their baby to sleep on his or her side or stomach.
- Two in 5 leave loose bedding and soft objects in the baby’s sleep area (usually bumper pads and thick blankets).
- Three in 5 sometimes share their bed with their baby.
