SIDS, a primary cause of death in infants before the age of one year, is not well understood by medical experts. But parents can take steps to prevent it.
 
Sudden Infant Death Syndrome or SIDS is an unexplained cause of death occurring in infants when they are sleeping. Dr. Tracy Milbrandt, assistant professor of pediatrics at SIU School of Medicine in Springfield, says the exact cause of SIDS has not been determined.
 
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SIDS is the leading cause of death among infants under one year old and it claims the lives of approximately 2,000 to 3,000 infants each year in the U.S. Dr. Milbrandt explains some risk factors for SIDS that can help parents be more aware.
 
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Dr. Milbrandt says babies should be placed on their backs when put to sleep. If parents are looking for more information about SIDS, she recommends the American Academy of Pediatrics and HealthyChildren.org web sites. Or talk to your child’s physician.