NASHVILLE, Tenn. — The Tennessee Titans are supporting Saint Thomas Health's efforts to promote safe sleep to new parents during SIDS Awareness Month in October.
Titans players, David Cobb, Andy Gallik, Jalston Fowler and Brandon Harris, in addition to Alice Whisenhunt, wife of Titans head coach, Ken Whisenhunt, all were at Saint Thomas Rutherford Hospital, visiting patients and welcoming new babies to their families.
The Titans support Saint Thomas Health's effort to promote SIDS Awareness Month in October.
"An event like this visit is appreciated," said Don Denmark, MD, Chief Medical Officer of Saint Thomas Rutherford Hospital. "Visiting with patients and Saint Thomas Health associates is an investment in caring and community building."
More than 4,500 infant deaths occur each year due to numerous factors including accidental suffocation and heart malfunctions and are broadly categorized as Sudden Unexpected Infant Deaths, or SUIDS. Some deaths can't be explained after investigation and are classified as Sudden Infant Death Syndrome, or SIDS. It is recommended to avoid overstuffed bedding, loose bedding, bumper pads and soft toys in cribs, which are linked to SUIDS. Some studies have shown than sharing a bed with an infant increased the risk of SIDS or suffocation, so instead parents should share a room which has been shown to reduce the risk of SIDS by as much as 50%. Remember the ABC's of safe sleep. Infants should sleep Alone, on their Backs, and in a Crib.
Saint Thomas Health delivers approximately 10,000 newborns each year and educates new parents about safe sleep practices for babies. Their mission is focused on improving the overall health in communities.
For more information, visit the Saint Thomas website at www.sths.com or call (615) 284-BABY.
