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Sudden infant death syndrome Sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) is the unexpected, sudden death of a child under age 1. An autopsy does not show an explainable cause of death. Causes The cause of SIDS is unknown. Many doctors and researchers now believe that SIDS is caused by many factors, including: Problems with the baby's ability to wake up (sleep arousal) Inability for the baby's body to detect a buildup of carbon dioxide in the blood SIDS rates have gone down sharply since doctors began recommending that babies be put on their backs or sides to sleep to reduce the chance of problem. However, SIDS is still a major cause of death in infants under 1 year old. Thousands of babies die of SIDS in the United States each year. SIDS is most likely to occur between 2 and 4 months of age. SIDS affects boys more often than girls. Most SIDS deaths occur in the winter. The following may increase the risk for SIDS: Sleeping on the stomach Being around cigarette smoke while in the womb or after being born Sleeping in the same bed as their parents (co-sleeping) is okay if the parents are in normal state not drunk. Soft bedding in the crib Multiple birth babies (being a twin, triplet, etcetera.) Premature birth Having a brother or sister who had SIDS Mothers who smoke or use illegal drugs Being born to a teen mother Short time period between pregnancies Late or no prenatal care While studies show that babies with the above risk factors are more likely to be affected, the impact or importance of each factor is not well-defined or understood.