Sikeston, Mo. – Over the last 10 years, 151 babies died in the Bootheel, and 28% of those deaths were related to being born too early. There is no single cause of premature birth, but research shows that a mother’s mental health and the stress she endures from her environment can strongly impact the development …
What Causes SIDS?
“SIDS” (Sudden Infant Death Syndrome) strikes fear into every parent’s heart, and that’s understandable. A normal, healthy baby can go to sleep and never wake up – for seemingly no reason. The medical community isn’t sure exactly what causes SIDS. But that doesn’t mean you’re helpless. Here are three major risk factors for SIDS, along …
5 little-known habits that endanger your baby
Accidental death related to unsafe sleep habits is the No. 1 cause of infant mortality in Missouri’s Bootheel. But it’s not just remembering to place your baby on his or her back to sleep or ensuring that your baby’s crib or sleep space meets current safety guidelines (both of which are very important). We know …
How you can help save lives
This September (like every September) is Infant Mortality Awareness Month – a time for us to shine a spotlight on the issue we’re passionate about every day. Infant mortality is a devastating problem in the Bootheel, with more than 140 babies from six Missouri counties (Dunklin, Mississippi, New Madrid, Pemiscot, Scott and Stoddard) lost in …
The Bootheel Opioid Crisis Affects Moms and Babies
The Bootheel of Missouri is in the epicenter of a region with the highest opioid prescription rates in America (see 2016 CDC figure below). While rates have improved recently, over 210 million prescriptions for opioids are filled in the USA annually, with 2% of Americans using opioids “regularly”. Most women in our region receive excellent …
How infant mortality affects you
Since 2009, 135 babies have died in six Bootheel counties in Missouri. That’s 135 children who never got to celebrate their first birthday or attend their first day of kindergarten. Hundreds of families will forever have a hole in their lives, and entire communities are affected by the impact of infant mortality – including YOU. …
The No. 1 thing you can do to reduce your infant’s risk of SIDS
The possibility of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) is one of the scariest things a parent can face. SIDS usually occurs during sleep, and experts aren’t exactly sure what causes it. Fortunately, they have been able to identify risk factors, meaning you can do more than just keep your fingers crossed. The best way to …
Is my baby at risk for heat stroke?
July and August are among the hottest months of the year, and your baby is especially vulnerable to the dangers of overheating – including suffering from heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Heat exhaustion is a milder form of heat stroke. Symptoms include unusual tiredness or thirstiness, as well as cool, moist skin. Leg and stomach …