Distinguishing sudden infant death syndrome from child abuse fatalities

In most cases, when a healthy infant younger than 1 year dies suddenly and unexpectedly, the cause is sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS). SIDS is mor e common than infanticide. Parents of SIDS victims typically are anxious to provide unlimited information to professionals involved in death investiga tion or research. They also want and deserve to be approached in a non-accu satory manner. This statement provides professionals with information and g uidelines to avoid distressing or stigmatizing families of SIDS victims whi le allowing accumulation of appropriate evidence in potential cases of deat h by infanticide.