What is sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS)?
According to Dr. Nithiyaa Jeyakumar, MBBS, DGO, DNB OG, MNAMS, Obstetrics and Gynecology, Apollo Cradle and Children's Hospital, Chennai (India), sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) is not a disease or a common pathology. Rather, it is a diagnosis given when a baby under 1 year of age dies suddenly and the exact cause cannot be immediately identified. However, there are certain risk factors that increase the chances of a baby dying suddenly.
Smoking during pregnancy increases the risk of SIDS
“Maternal smoking during pregnancy has long been recognized as a risk factor for SIDS,” says Dr. Jeyakumar. “Smoking during pregnancy exposes the fetus to harmful substances such as nicotine and carbon monoxide. These chemicals disrupt the developing brain regions that process breathing and waking from sleep.”
The effects of prenatal exposure to these toxins increase the risk of respiratory problems and reduce the ability to respond to low oxygen levels, making infants more susceptible to SIDS.
Cigarette Smoke and SIDS
The dangers of smoking don't end after birth. Babies exposed to cigarette smoke, often called secondhand smoke, are more likely to develop SIDS.
“Cigarette smoke contains more than 7,000 chemicals that are harmful to a baby’s respiratory system and will make it harder for them to breathe,” explains Dr. Jeyakumar. “Babies who are regularly exposed to secondhand smoke are less likely to wake up from sleep, which is considered an important way to protect against SIDS.”
For example, a mother can make sure her home and car are smoke-free to reduce the risk to her baby. However, if the mother smokes outdoors, these chemicals can still cling to her clothes and hair, making it dangerous for the baby to come into contact with the mother.
What can parents do?
There are steps parents can take to significantly reduce the risk of SIDS. Here are some expert recommendations.
- Quit smoking before or during pregnancy and make sure your newborn is not exposed to cigarette smoke.
- Create a smoke-free sleeping environment for your baby.
“The link between smoking and SIDS may guide parents to make better choices regarding smoking, thus creating a healthier environment for their infants and reducing their risk of this devastating condition,” concluded Dr Jeyakumar.
