SIDS is defined as the sudden, unexpected death of an infant, usually under one year of age. SIDS occurs in all types of families, regardless of race or socioeconomic level. SIDS is unexpected, usually occurring in apparently healthy infants from one month to one year of age.

Before 1994, SIDS cost the lives of more than 5000 babies in the United States every year. Since then the number has declined to about 2,000 per year thanks to parental awareness.

• 68 infants in Mississippi died of SIDS in 2006.
• Most SIDS deaths occur in infants between 2 and 4 months of age.
• SIDS rates are highest among African-Americans and American Indians.

• Babies are more likely to die of SIDS when they sleep on their stomachs.
• More SIDS deaths happen in the winter and spring.
• SIDS deaths are more common in male babies.

SIDS is not preventable. You can, however, reduce the risk of SIDS for your baby.

• What Parents Need to Know
• Facts for Childcare Workers
• Information for Medical Examiners

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• Mississippi SIDS Alliance
• Back to Sleep Campaign
• Necesito Dormir Boca Arriba (PDF)
• First Candle/SIDS Alliance
• CJ Foundation for SIDS
• National SIDS and Infant Death Program Support Center
• Association of SIDS and Infant Mortality Programs (ASIP)
• Grandparents' Support in Tragedy
• Healthy Child Care America

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SIDS Program
Mississippi State Department of Health
Osborne 200
570 East Woodrow Wilson
Jackson, MS 39216

Phone: (601) 576-8112 or (601) 576-7619

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