Brain abnormality responsible for SIDS?RSS Feed

Scientists have identified regions in the brain which could contribute to the occurrence of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS), more commonly known as cot death.

By investigating the areas in the brain which work together to control breathing and swallowing, without causing choking, the researchers from Macquarie University in Sydney hope to identify what happens during SIDS.

Researchers suggest that it could be an abnormality in the reflex which prevents foreign matter entering the lungs that causes the condition.

Lead author professor Paul Pilowsky, said: "Until now, the centres in the brain that coordinate breathing and swallowing were poorly understood, but our research has finally teased apart the two mechanisms in the brain, demonstrating how they work together in the presence of an irritant."

A 'baby swap' storyline on the soap Eastenders has recently drawn public attention to SIDS, with the BBC receiving numerous complaints about how the subject matter was tackled.

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Posted by John Sherrington
 

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