Asphyxial Crib Death

Abstract

During the 30-month period from January 1, 1973, to June 30, 1975, a total of 15 infants in Wayne County, Michigan (population, 2.6 million), died suddenly in their cribs as a result of accidental asphyxia (smothering or strangulation). Ten cases of asphyxia were due to suffocation or strangulation as a result of entrapment of the head and neck between crib slats or crib rail and mattress. Five additional deaths resulted from strangulation when the pacifier cord, necklace or nightgown became entangled on the crib post or on a toy attached to the crib rail (Fig. 1, 2, and 3).Of the 15 deaths, . . .