FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CONTACT: Wes Stubblefield, M.D., M.P.H., F.A.A.P., (256) 340-2113
The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) has provided additional details regarding safe sleep in its recently published policy statement, “Sleep-Related Infant Deaths: Updated 2022 Recommendations for Reducing Infant Deaths in the Sleep Environment.” The ABCs of safe sleep still apply:
The new guidelines have added more details with much focus on the baby’s sleep surface, which should be firm and flat. The guidelines specifically recommend against inclined sleep surfaces, which have been connected to several infant injuries and deaths, resulting in product recalls by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission. Even babies with reflux or who spit up should sleep flat on their backs for every sleep.
Where babies sleep is also a concern. Couches and armchairs are very dangerous places for infants to sleep alone or with someone. Additionally, babies often die in adult beds. The AAP acknowledges that many parents choose to routinely bed share, but per the policy statement, “on the basis of the evidence, the AAP is unable to recommend bed sharing under any circumstances.” Parents are encouraged to share their room, but not their bed.
Sleep-related infant deaths are still a major problem in Alabama. In 2020, 404 babies tragically died before their first birthday. Of those deaths, 61 were officially ruled sleep-related with the cause of death listed as either “sudden infant death syndrome” (SIDS) or “accidental suffocation or strangulation in bed.” An additional 41 deaths were listed as “undetermined,” although many of those deaths occurred while the baby was sleeping.
“All of these deaths are tragic,” said Dr. Wes Stubblefield, medical officer and pediatrician with the Alabama Department of Public Health. “Some of them are preventable, and that is what we need to focus on going forward.” There are risk factors that caregivers can control to lower their baby’s risk of dying while sleeping.
Dr. Stubblefield acknowledges that new parents are often exhausted, "Safe sleep can be hard, but your baby's life is worth it!"
What families can do:
What providers can do:
The State Perinatal Program is organizing an Alabama Public Health Training Network satellite conference and live webcast titled “Talking to Parents and Caregivers about Safe Sleep.” The event will be Thursday, August 25, 10 a.m.-12 noon. (Central Time). For more information and to register, please visit alabamapublichealth.gov/alphtn.
-30-
8/22/22
County health departments throughout Alabama provide a wide range of confidential and professional services. Contact your local county health department for additional information.
Mission: To promote, protect, and improve Alabama’s health
Vision: Healthy People. Healthy Communities. Healthy Alabama.