Local Statistics

St. Louis area statistics:

From 2002-2004, there were 99 infant deaths classifed as SIDS (Sudden Infant Death Syndrome), accidental suffocation or undetermined in St. Louis City and St. Louis, St. Charles, Jefferson and Franklin Counties.  Of these deaths, 41 (41%) were found in a bed sharing situation and 31 were found face down (in the prone position).  Only 3 cases were found in the supine (back) sleeping position.  In 93% of cases, a problem with sleep practice was present as a risk factor. 

Missouri statistics:

In 2004, there were 122 sudden unexpected deaths of infants under the age of one year reported to the Child Fatality Review Program (in the State of Missouri).  Based on autopsy, investigation, and Child Fatality Review Program panel review, 44 were diagnosed as Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS), 20 other illness/natural cause, 38 unintentional suffocation, three homocides and 17 could not be determined. 

Prone sleep position and unsafe sleep arrangements are known to be a highly significant risk factors occuring in the large majority of cases (84.8%) of sudden infant death diagnosed as SIDS, unintentional suffocation and cause undetermined.  Unsafe sleep arrangements include any sleep surface not designed for infants, sleeping with head or face covered, or sharing a sleep surface (bed sharing).  Of the 44 Missouri infant deaths diagnosed as SIDS in 2004, 19 (43%) were known to be sleeping on their stomach or side, 27 (61%) were not sleeping in a standard crib on a firm mattress and 17 (39%) were sleeping in an adult bed.  Only 5 (11%) sudden infant deaths diagnosed as SIDS were known to be sleeping alone, on their backs in a standard crib with head and face uncovered.  Another 38 sudden, unexpected infant deaths were diagnosed as suffocation in 2004 and were directly related to an unsafe sleep environment.  The safest place for an infant to sleep is in a standard cribk on his or her back, without solf bedding or toys of any kind. 

                                                                    - Preventing Child Deaths in Missouri:

                                                                      The Missouri Child Fatality Review             

                                                                      Program Annual Report for 2004