A Multicentric Retrospective Study of Suspected Sudden Infant Death Syndrome in Emergency Departments in the Sultanate of Oman

Abstract Background: Sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) refers to the unexplained death of an infant. In the Sultanate of Oman and much of the Middle East, there are limited data on SIDS, creating a barrier to effective prevention and awareness. Materials and Methods: This retrospective Facility based study reviewed records from two major Omani hospitals (2016–2022), including previously healthy infants with sudden unexpected death. No family contact was made due to sensitivity. Results: Of 90 reviewed cases, 16 met the inclusion criteria. Ten (62.5%) were male (mean age 128 days); six (37.5%) were female (mean age 121.5 days). The most common presentations were difficulty breathing (31.25%) and being found unresponsive (25%). Incidents peaked in October–November and between 12:01 and 18:00 h. Asystole was noted in 75%. None survived despite resuscitative efforts. Unsafe sleep environments were suspected in 43.8%. Conclusion: The findings point to unsafe sleep as a potentially modifiable risk factor. Seasonal and timing patterns may guide targeted community education and inform national SIDS prevention policies.