While the rate of infant sleep-related death has been relatively unchanged since 2019 (1.1 in 2019 vs. 1.4 in 2022), the direction is trending upward. Deaths from both sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) and unintentional suffocation/strangulation in bed are included in the calculation of the infant sleep-related death rate. 

There are many factors that play a role in the trend of infant sleep-related deaths. Smoking during pregnancy, low birthweight (<5.5 lbs or 2,500g), and preterm births (<37 weeks gestation) all increase the risk of SIDS; while feeding a baby breastmilk decreases the risk of SIDS. Unsafe sleep habits - such as bed-sharing, putting baby to sleep in positions other than on its back, putting baby to sleep on a soft surface or with objects such as blankets, pillows, or toys - greatly increase the risk of SIDS and unintentional suffocation/strangulation. Despite this knowledge, cultural and social norms lead to the continued use of many unsafe sleep habits.