NASHVILLE, Tenn. — The Titans are supporting Saint Thomas Health's efforts to promote safe sleep to new parents during SIDS Awareness Month in October.
Titans' DE Mehdi Abdesmad, S Kevin Byard and CB LeShaun Sims visited Saint Thomas Rutherford Hospital, welcoming new babies to their families.
"We look forward to our visit with the Tennessee Titans every year!" said Elisha Gifford, RN Labor & Delivery Nurse at Saint Thomas Rutherford Hospital. "I believe our patients, along with our associates enjoy this experience very much."
More than 4,500 infant deaths occur each year due to numerous factors including accidental suffocation and heart malfunctions and are broadly categorized as Sudden Unexpected Infant Deaths, or SUIDS. Some deaths can't be explained after investigation and are classified as Sudden Infant Death Syndrome, or SIDS. It is recommended to avoid overstuffed bedding, loose bedding, bumper pads and soft toys in cribs, which are linked to SUIDS. Some studies have shown than sharing a bed with an infant increased the risk of SIDS or suffocation, so instead parents should share a room which has been shown to reduce the risk of SIDS by as much as 50 percent. Remember the ABC's of safe sleep. Infants should sleep Alone, on their Backs, and in a Crib.
Saint Thomas Health delivers approximately 10,000 newborns each year and educates new parents about safe sleep practices for babies. Their mission is focused on improving the overall health in communities.
For more information, visit the Saint Thomas website at www.sths.com or call (615) 284-BABY.
Titans players support SIDS Awareness Month at Saint Thomas Rutherford Hospital. (Photos: Lynne McCracken)
