DETROIT – The CDC estimates that 3,500 babies in the U.S. are lost to sleep-related deaths every year. One Metro Detroit mother is sharing her story in hopes of preventing more tragedies.
Sleep-related infant deaths are 67 times higher when sleeping with a child on a couch, soft armchair, or cushion, officials say. Sleeping on the same surface increases the risk 5-10 times when a child is less than four months old, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics.
Infants can suffocate when an adult rolls over on them or covers them up. Local mother Essie Boatwright’s son, Alexander, died accidentally after living for just 33 days.
Watch the video player above for the full story.
Henry Ford Health has recently launched an effort with a new group called the Women Inspired Neighborhood Network, or WIN Network, to discuss with and provide advice to local parents caring for infants. The goal is to share best practices and help parents prevent avoidable tragedies that are, unfortunately, too common.
See that report in the video player below.