Sudden infant death syndrome prevention

We looked at existing recommendations and supporting evidence for successful strategies to prevent the sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS). We conducted a literature search up to the 14th of December 2020 by using key terms and manual search in selected sources. We summarized the recommendations and the strength of the recommendation when and as reported by the authors. We summarized the main findings of systematic reviews with the certainty of the evidence as reported. Current evidence supports statistical associations between risk factors and SIDS, but there is globally limited evidence by controlled studies assessing the effect of the social promotion strategies to prevent SIDS through knowledge, attitude and practices, due to obvious ethical reasons. A dramatic decline in SIDS incidence has been observed in many countries after the introduction of Back to Sleep campaigns for prevention of SIDS. All infants should be placed to sleep in a safe environment including supine position, a firm surface, no soft objects and loose bedding, no head covering, no overheating, and room-sharing without bed-sharing. Breastfeeding on demand and the use of pacifier during sleep time protect against SIDS and should be recommended. Parents should be advised against the use of tobacco, alcohol and illicit drugs during gestation and after birth.

Automated summary

The study found that there is limited controlled research evidence globally on the effectiveness of social promotion strategies in preventing SIDS. However, a significant decline in SIDS incidence has been observed in many countries after the implementation of "Back to Sleep" campaigns. It is therefore recommended that all infants sleep in a safe environment and breastfeeding on demand and pacifier use during sleep are protective measures against SIDS.