Sudden Infant Death Syndrome Mortality Trends in Mississippi, 2012–2022

Due to the lack of studies examining SIDS mortality trends and its implications on pediatric populations, this study aimed to address the gap in research and to identify the magnitude and the impact of SIDS by exploring trends in SIDS among infants from 2012 to 2022. The study uses data from the Mississippi Statistically Automated Health Resource System, which is an online database with data collected from vital statistics. Joinpoint regression models were used to calculate Annual Percentage Change (APC) and Average Annual Percentage Change (AAPC) as an indicator of trends. The overall SIDS mortality rate remained 0.5 deaths per 100,000 in 2012 and 2022. There are upward trends for males (AAPC, 10.5%, 95% CI, 4.6% to 24.7%), females (AAPC, 9.0%, 95% CI, 2.9% to 23.9%), Blacks (AAPC, 14.3%, 95% CI, 8.2% to 35.2%), Whites (AAPC, 7.9%, 95% CI, 1.5% to 19.7%), and post neonates (AAPC, 9.0%, 95% CI, 2.5% to 22.8%). Other races had a downward trend from 2012-2021 (APC, -2.3%, 95 CI, -3.8% to -0.6%). There is no change in neonates. This study identified an overall change in trends. However, trends varied by gender, race, and age group. Based on the findings, Mississippi needs more initiatives aimed towards equitable preventing SIDS in infants. By implementing these measures, Mississippi could improve health outcomes, and reduce infant mortality within the state.