The World Health
Organization and national statistical offices are coming under
pressure to officially recognise sudden death syndrome in a bid
to reduce the number of unexplained deaths among healthy
children and young adults. The campaign is being
led by two British Labour MEPs, Linda McAvan and Catherine
Stihler. They point out that since cot deaths were officially
recognised as sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) over 10 years
ago, deaths had fallen by 70%.
In a letter to Britain's
national statistical office, they note: "Although the
actual cause(s) of SIDS remain unknown, giving these cases a
recognised name has enabled researchers to better study the
problem and propose measures which have clearly helped to
reduce deaths. Experience with SIDS also highlights how the use
of a clinically recognised term can provide some comfort and
solidarity to bereaved families who are often left deeply shocked
and isolated."
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