Cot death mystery 'solved' by scientists
november 1st

us scientists believe they have found the cause of cot deaths, which claim the lives of hundreds of babies every year. They say they have the strongest evidence that it is caused partly by a genetic disorder, which may one day be treatable. A new study found 31 babies who died mysteriously in their sleep had brain abnormalities.

These were in the part that controls breathing, heart rate, blood pressure and arousal.

The problems appeared to affect the brainstem's ability to sense high

amounts of carbon dioxide and low oxygen levels and prevent itself from asphyxiating.

This meant the babies were particularly at risk in situations where they began breathing in their own recycled breath.

The most common instances are when they are sleeping face-down or have their faces covered by bedding.

Research has already shown that putting a baby to sleep on its stomach greatly increases the risk of sudden infant death syndrome, or sids.

There are around 300 cot death cases each year in the uk, mostly involving babies under six months old.

"these findings provide evidence that sids is not a mystery but a disorder that... Some day we may be able to identify and treat," said hannah kinney, of the boston children's hospital.