SIDS: parental awareness and infant care practices in contrasting socioeconomic areas in Cardiff

Parental awareness of risk factors for sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) and infant care practices were compared in an area of relative deprivation and one of relative affluence in Cardiff. Awareness was high in both areas. More infants slept on the side in the deprived area (p < 0.02). One in three babies was exposed to cigarette smoking, significantly more in the deprived area (p < 0.001). Health professionals should discourage side sleeping and smoking, especially in areas of deprivation.