Bed sharing, smoking, and risk of cot death Clinnix.net,
(Monday, 27th January 2003)


"Mothers who share a bed with their baby and who smoke could be putting their children at risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) according to UK researchers.

They warn that mothers should be told of the risks of SIDS (sometimes referred to as cot death) both before and after the birth, so they can do all they can to avoid it.

Smoking has long been recognised as a risk factor for SIDS. And despite advice given by health professionals and via the NHS Pregnancy Smoking Helpline, many women continue to smoke during pregnancy, or start smoking again when their baby is born. [ I think it's going to be hard to convince moms of this until we can tell them why... - JC]