One of the most important questions researchers continue to explore is:
What Causes SIDS?
SIDS (Sudden Infant Death Syndrome) is the sudden and unexpected death of a baby under 12 months of age that remains unexplained after investigation.
While the exact cause is still not fully understood, scientific research suggests that many SIDS deaths occur when three factors come together at the same time.
This is known as the Triple Risk Model.
The Triple Risk Model
Researchers believe a SIDS event may occur when the following three conditions intersect:
1. A Critical Development Period
During the first year of life, babies are going through rapid development. The risk of SIDS is highest in the first six months, particularly between 2–4 months of age, when breathing and sleep regulation systems are still maturing.
2. A Vulnerable Infant
Some babies may have an underlying vulnerability in the brainstem, the part of the brain responsible for controlling breathing, heart rate and waking from sleep.
These vulnerabilities are not visible and are usually only identified through research.
3. External Stressors
External stressors are factors in a baby’s sleep environment that may interfere with breathing.
Examples include:
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tummy or side sleeping
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exposure to cigarette smoke
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soft bedding such as pillows or doonas
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loose blankets covering the face
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cot bumpers or padded bedding
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soft toys in the sleep space
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sleep positioners or nests
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overheating
These are the factors that parents and caregivers can most influence.
