Policy aimed at reducing sudden infant deaths being implemented

A new Safe Sleep Policy aimed at reducing sudden infant deaths and improving infant care practices is being implemented at the Sir Lester Bird Medical Centre (SLBMC).

The initiative is a collaborative effort between the hospital and the Prices and Consumer Affairs Division and forms part of a broader awareness campaign launched this week to promote safe sleeping environments for newborns and infants.

Dr. Saleem Hughes, Head of Pediatrics at the hospital, revealed that the Safe Sleep Policy is designed to ensure that parents and caregivers are well-equipped to provide a safe sleep space for babies before leaving the hospital. The policy will be rolled out across the healthcare system, starting at the Sir Lester Bird Medical Centre.

“Now this includes providing them with the necessary materials and support to help parents create a safe sleep environment for their newborns. In addition to our efforts to raise awareness to the media, we’ll be educating all expectant parents or caregivers on safe sleep practices.

“Information will be shared on websites. It would be placed on the Sir Lester Bird Medical Centre website and also on the website of the Prices and Consumer Affairs Division. We would also be distributing posters.

According to Dr. Hughes, the campaign is informed by recommendations from the American Academy of Pediatrics, which advocates the ABCs of safe sleep—babies should sleep Alone, on their Backs, and in a Crib.

She highlighted that although Antigua and Barbuda’s infant mortality rate has declined, even one preventable infant death is too many.

“So, in 2023, the infant mortality rate in Antigua and Barbuda was 7.3 deaths per thousand live births. This represents a significant decrease from previous years. Although we are unable to provide specific statistics related to sudden infant death syndrome at this sitting, we have had cases of sudden unexpected infant deaths over the years.  And I’m sure that everyone would agree that even the loss of a single child is one too many.

Director of the Prices and Consumer Affairs Division, Orrin Steele, further explained that the partnership with the hospital’s Pediatric Department seeks to raise awareness among both parents and caregivers about creating a safe sleep environment for babies.

“We had some discussions and, you know, we planned the way how we’re going to inform not only mothers, but caregivers. Because even if you’re not a mother, at some point, somebody might just tell you, can you just hold my child for me, I’m going to an appointment or have somewhere to go.

The Safe Sleep Policy is part of a regional initiative supported by the Organisation of American States (OAS), aimed at improving consumer health and safety through public education.