SUDI Prevention: A Priority To Save Babies During Recession

The Children’s Social Health Monitor, launched today at the Paediatric Society of New Zealand’s annual scientific meeting in Hamilton, confirms that the negative social and health effects brought on by the economic recession will be predictably worse for many of the low income and benefit dependant Maori families and their children.   Present in these communities is an increased risk of SUDI or Sudden and Unexpected Death in Infancy which includes such deaths as SIDS or Sudden Infant Death Syndrome, and accidental bed-sharing deaths.  In light of this, the Maori SIDS team is making a timely plea to all parents and whanau, health professionals, and support services working in the community to prioritise SUDI prevention messages.

“The report shows that for this decade the reduction of SUDI rates has slowed considerably in comparison to the 1990s,” says Maori SIDS Operations Manager, Herena Te Wano, “and we must be diligent about SUDI prevention to ensure we do not take steps back.”  There are several key messages for caregivers and their whanau to take up which Mrs Te Wano expounded upon,  “It’s unacceptable for women to smoke during pregnancy especially if they want to sleep in close proximity to their babies, and even then they need to be thinking about safe sleeping practices.  This includes putting baby to sleep on their back, not their tummy, and ensuring baby’s face is clear of blankets, no pillows and will not be rolled on by an adult or another child. If a caregiver is under the influence of drugs, alcohol or is overtired they should stay clear of baby.”

The New Zealand Cot Death Study conducted in the 1980s, identified risky care practices, including the lack of breastfeeding.  “With stretched budgets, breastfeeding is both healthy, affordable and a protective factor in the care of baby, so we need to be encouraging and supporting our mothers to do this.”

In addition, the Maori SIDS team has been promoting the use of Wahakura, which is a flax bassinette.  The Wahakura is a soft option that can be used to provide a protective sleeping area for baby when they are sleeping by their mums.  “We are excited about the prospects of the Wahakura which has gained wide support including Maori communities, SIDS researchers and coroners,” said Mrs Te Wano in closing.  The Maori SIDS website - dev.maorisids.org.nz, provides more information on Wahakura.