How simple safety steps can drastically reduce SIDS risks for babies
Sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) remains a rare but serious concern for parents. While exact figures for the Komi Republic are unavailable, national data shows fewer than 0.5 cases per 1,000 live births in Russia. Simple safety measures can significantly lower the risks.
Safe sleep practices are among the most important steps to protect infants. Babies should always sleep on their backs, on a firm mattress, without loose items like pillows or soft toys. Sharing a bed with an infant is strongly discouraged due to the high risk of accidental suffocation. For the first six months, experts recommend placing the baby in a separate crib within the parents' room.
Overheating also poses a danger, so dressing babies appropriately and checking for signs of excess warmth is essential. Smoking and alcohol during pregnancy or around the baby further increase risks, making a smoke-free environment crucial.
Beyond sleep, other precautions include never leaving a baby unattended in the bath and always using a child car seat, even for short trips. Breastfeeding has been shown to reduce SIDS risk by up to 70%, while timely vaccinations in line with the national schedule can cut the risk by half.
Following these guidelines can help safeguard infants from preventable harm. While SIDS rates in Russia remain low, consistent safety habits provide the best protection for newborns. Parents are encouraged to stay informed and apply these measures from birth.
