Home / Health / Shock Report: 36% of NB Infant Sleep Deaths Preventable
Shock Report: 36% of NB Infant Sleep Deaths Preventable
14 Jul
Summary
- 36% of infant deaths under two were linked to unsafe sleep practices.
- Unsafe practices include stomach sleeping, loose bedding, and co-sleeping.
- Report recommends hospitals demonstrate safe sleep before discharge.
A concerning report from New Brunswick's child death review committee reveals that 36 percent of all infant deaths under the age of two were associated with unsafe sleeping practices over a five-year period. This alarming statistic indicates a trend that is not improving, with many of these sleep-related incidents being entirely preventable.
The committee's review of child deaths between January 1, 2020, and September 11, 2025, identified unsafe practices such as placing infants to sleep on their stomachs, co-sleeping, and using soft bedding or pillows. Health experts stress the heightened risk of suffocation from these methods.
Misinformation on social media regarding practices like co-sleeping is cited as a contributing factor to these high numbers. Health authorities strongly advise against co-sleeping, emphasizing that it is not necessary for bonding.
To address the issue, the report recommends that New Brunswick health authorities update their newborn discharge policies. This includes requiring parents to demonstrate safe sleep practices before leaving the hospital. Furthermore, the report calls for enhanced training for social workers regarding safe sleep practices and their role in educating parents and caregivers.
These findings echo broader Canadian statistics, with a previous investigation revealing over 1,300 infant sleep deaths between 2009 and 2019. Notably, the report found that while half of the deceased children's families were involved with social development, no evidence suggested socio-economic factors directly increased the risk.
