Survey targets infant deaths

Families with babies born in April and May are being asked about their infants’ sleep routines for one of the largest studies in Queensland into sudden and unexpected infant deaths.
Researchers at the University of the Sunshine Coast are sending surveys to parents as part of the study led by USC Professor of Nursing Jeanine Young who said despite public health campaigns Queensland had one of the highest rates in Australia of unexplained infant death.
“By better understanding how parents use advice and public health recommendations to care for their babies, we hope to reduce the rate of fatal sleeping accidents and sudden infant deaths,” she said.
“The Infant Care Awareness and Routines Evaluation Among Queenslanders study is the first of this kind in 15 years, and is supported as a priority by the State Coroner and Red Nose, formerly SIDS and Kids.”
PhD candidate and paediatric clinical nurse Roni Cole said the findings would be used to shape future public health campaigns and safe sleeping messages.
“Each week, around two babies under the age of 12 months die suddenly and unexpectedly in Australia,” she said.
“Previous research clearly demonstrates that some infant care practices are associated with increased risk of babies dying; while others may protect babies.”