Researchers from MPHI’s National Center for Fatality Review and Prevention (National Center), housed within the Center for National Prevention Initiatives (CNPI), recently had an article accepted for publication in Pediatrics, the official journal of the American Academy of Pediatrics. The article centered around sudden unexpected infant deaths (SUIDs) occurring in inclined sleepers. The National Center team identified SUIDs in inclined sleepers between 2009 and 2023, using data documented by child death review teams in the Pediatric National Fatality Review-Case Reporting System (Pediatric NFR-CRS). SUIDs are tragic losses, but the National Center’s efforts help to prove where dangers lie and prevent future SUIDs.

The study found a need to reinforce safe sleep guidelines and to disseminate product recall information, after findings reported that nearly one-third of all SUIDs related to inclined sleepers occurred after recalls in 2019. Some of the key statistics from the article are featured below:

  • From 2009 to 2023, 158 SUIDs occurred in inclined sleepers.
    • At least 32% occurred after recalls in 2019.
  • In 51 SUIDs, reports indicated the infant’s airway was fully or partially obstructed when found.
    • 55% by the inclined sleeper material.

The article recommends that health care providers, home visitors, health insurers, and family-serving organizations continue to advise caregivers on the importance of a safe infant sleep environment and disseminate product recall information. National recommendations for safe sleep, supported by this study, include using a firm, non-inclined surface and avoiding soft bedding.

To read the full article, visit:
Sudden Unexpected Infant Death in Inclined Sleepers: 2009–2023 | Pediatrics | American Academy of Pediatrics