Approximately
3,500 infants die annually in the United States from sleep-related infant
deaths, including sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS). New guidance from the
American Academy of Pediatrics is designed to help reduce those numbers. They
recommend supine positioning, the use of a firm sleep surface, room-sharing
without bed-sharing, and the avoidance of soft bedding and overheating.
Additional recommendations for SIDS reduction include breastfeeding, avoidance
of exposure to smoke, alcohol, and illicit drugs, routine immunization, and the
use of a pacifier. The recommendations and strength of evidence for each
recommendation are included in this policy statement. Read more at http://pediatrics.aappublications.org/content/early/2016/10/20/peds.2016-2938
