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Fan Use Linked to Lower Risk of Sudden Baby Death

Author: fanman, 10 21st, 2008

Nursery Ceiling Fan

I recently viewed a story on FOX News that discussed the effect the use of a fan has on Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) and found it very interesting. In October, 2008, the Associated Press reported:

using a fan to circulate air seemed to

lower the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome.

SIDS is defined as the sudden death of an otherwise healthy infant that can’t be attributed to any other cause. It is possible these babies may have brain abnormalities that prevent them from gasping and waking up when they don’t get enough oxygen.Of course, experts say placing babies on their backs to sleep is still the best way to prevent SIDS. They also recommend a firm mattress, removing all toys and pillows from cribs, and keeping infants from getting too warm.

This new study offers parents another way to make sure

babies get enough air while they sleep.

During the study, researchers took into account other risk factors and found that fan use was associated with a 72% lower risk of SIDS. Using a fan reduced risk most for babies in poor sleeping environments.

“The baby’s sleeping environment really matters,” said study senior author Dr. De-Kun Li of the Kaiser Permanente Division of Research in Oakland, California. “This seems to suggest that by improving room ventilation we can further reduce the risk.”More research is needed, said Dr. Fern Hauck of the University of Virginia in Charlottesville, but she said that because fan use is in line with theories, it is worth considering.Experts advise parents not to place an infant directly in front of a fan. Instead, they suggest using a ceiling fan to provide indirect air movement improving the room’s ventilation and air circulation while also keeping the baby from getting too warm.

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