R95-R99: Ill-defined and unknown causes of mortality

R95: Sudden infant death syndrome

Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS), also known as cot death, is the unexpected passing of an apparently healthy baby less than a year old during sleep. This tragic event typically occurs between 2 and 4 months of age, with no apparent cause even after a thorough investigation, including a complete autopsy and a review of the infant's clinical history. Though the exact cause of SIDS is unknown, it's believed to be associated with defects in the portion of an infant's brain that controls breathing and arousal from sleep. Factors like sleeping on the stomach or side, overheating, exposure to cigarette smoke, and loose bedding can increase the risk of SIDS. SIDS isn't predictable or preventable, and it doesn't provide warning signs. It's the leading cause of death among infants 1 month to 1 year old.