Sudden Infant Death Syndrome in Native and Non-Native Population: Trends Over 19 Years

Abstract □ 33

Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) is the leading cause of post-neonatal mortality in Canada. Native Canadians have a high post-neonatal mortality and we reviewed trends in SIDS in Natives and others from the Medical Examiner's database.

In Alberta, since 1977, all sudden unexpected deaths (SUD) in infancy are reported to the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner. In all cases there is a scene investigation, autopsy and review of medical records. We reviewed the files of all SUD and abstracted information from those confirmed as SIDS. (Table)

Table 1

There has been a fall in the number of non-Native SIDS despite an increase in population. There has not been a fall in Native deaths.

We examined in detail factors which may differ between Native and non-Native infants. There was a tendency for more of the Native mothers to be smoking both during pregnancy and at the time of the infants' death and for more of the Native fathers to be smokers. More of the Native infants were first born. Native parents were more likely to use a bed type (such as an adult bed) other than a crib or bassinet. Natives were significantly less likely to be sleeping alone, on a firm bed surface or to be found in a prone position.

While further investigation into reasons why Native SIDS numbers have not fallen, these data suggest publicity and education in the Native community on bed type, sleep position and smoking habits focused on the first time parents is needed. Native leaders in the area of child care should be informed of these findings.