3-14-06

NewsLine -- SIDS

SIDS, a primary cause of death in infants before the age of one year, may be linked to lower levels of serotonin, a compound in the body that regulates some bodily functions.

Sudden Infant Death Syndrome or SIDS is an unexplained cause of death occurring in infants when they are found dead in their crib or other places where they have been sleeping. A recent article in the Journal of Neuroscience indicates that a root cause of sudden infant death syndrome or SIDS may be decreased serotonin levels, says Dr. Tracy Milbrandt, assistant professor of pediatrics at SIU School of Medicine in Springfield.

SOUND BITE: ". . . the journal article did discuss the two pathways for breathing – the normal regulatory pattern of breathing - but in a case where that is interrupted, gasping is sort of a back-up mechanism. So in this case, what they’re proposing is in a baby whose normal auto regulation is somehow disturbed, their back-up mechanism is also not working properly."

SIDS is the third leading cause of infant mortality in the United States and is the leading cause of death among infants between the ages of one month and one year. Dr. Milbrandt suggests some ways to protect babies from SIDS.

SOUND BITE: "We encourage mothers to not smoke during their pregnancy. We also encourage all family members in which an infant is in the home to not smoke in that home as well. For sleep, we prefer babies sleep on their backs on a firm mattress, tight-fitting sheets, no pillows, blankets, stuffed animals or anything soft that can get around babies head or mouth be in the crib where they’re sleeping. We also encourage babies sleep in their own crib or bassinette and not in a bed or couch with an adult or child."

If parents are looking for more information about SIDS, Dr. Milbrandt recommends the American Academy of Pediatrics and Centers for Disease Control websites. Or talk to your child’s physician.

This is Ruth Slottag at SIU School of Medicine in Springfield.