RISK-FACTORS FOR SUDDEN INFANT DEATH (SID ) - EPIDEMIOLOGIC-STUDY IN 2 GERMAN DISTRICTS 1990-1992

Epidemiologic risk factors for sudden unexpected infant deaths (SID) b etween the 8th and 730th day of life were investigated in two German d istricts (53 000 births per year) between 1990 to 1992. 175 cases (69% of the official statistical figures) were included 97% had a Postmort em examination, all involved families had an interview. Control data w ere taken from a perinatal inquiry (n = 92 062), a mail survey of the Ministry of Health (Bundesgesundheitsamt) (n = 760), and official stat istics (n = 834 38 1) of the same area. Situational characteristics: p rone position (Odds-Ratio 9.7), head under bedclothes (OR 20. 1), prof use sweating (OR 13.9).. Sociodemographic features: mother < 18 years (OR 4.2), father unemployed (OR 2.1), >3 children (3.2), low education al level of the mother (2.6). Pre-/perinatal factors: <5 examinations during pregnancy (OR 3.3), multiple birth (4.2), birthweight < 3000 g (OR 1.9), prematurity (OR 1.9), smoking during pregnancy (OR 5.4, >9 c igarettes 11.7). Low birthweight was only a risk factor in combination with smoking. Postnatal factors: prone spleeping position (OR 6.1), b reast feeding <3 months (OR 6.3), smoking (3.3). Since they could be m odified, their odds-ratio and prevalence the risk factors smoking, bot tle feeding and prone sleeping position are the most promising for a p reventive campaign in Germany.