Is it Time for a Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) Awareness Campaign? Community Stakeholders’ Perceptions of SIDS

Abstract

ABSTRACTSudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) remains a leading cause of infant death in the United States, and in Virginia. We sought to gauge the perceptions among community-identified stakeholders regarding community resource needs to reduce SIDS. Snowball sampling identified important community stakeholders to be interviewed as key informants. A semi-structured interview was delivered to determine resource needs to reduce SIDS, and whether high-risk community members were aware of SIDS risk factors. Interviews were conducted in two geographic areas with higher than average rates of infant mortality: Winchester City, VA; Page County, VA. Seventy-four interviews were completed with stakeholders in healthcare, social services, and a variety of other organizations. The majority of respondents perceive that high-risk community members are not aware of factors that can lead to SIDS (50%). Participants suggested that more “education” is needed to further reduce SIDS rates in their communities (73%). Respondents detailed that more pervasive, strategic, and multi-channelled education is necessary to reduce cases of SIDS. Community leaders perceive that high-risk community members are not fully aware of risk factors that can lead to SIDS. Maternal/child health stakeholders in these Virginia locales suggested more community-based education as a potential solution.