The epidemiology working group monitor the evidence of characteristics and risk factors associated with infants who die suddenly and unexpectedly. We try to meet at least once a year and attempt to clarify where we have consensus of opinion, and - just as importantly - outline precisely where we may differ in our interpretation of any findings. This has led to several review publications:

• Blair PS, Mitchell EA, Heckstall-Smith EM, Fleming PJ. Head Covering - A major modifiable risk factor for Sudden Infant Death Syndrome: A systematic review. Arch Dis Child 2008; 93 (9): 778-783. Article
• Venemann MMT, Hoffgen M, Bajanowski T, Hense HW, Mitchell EA. Do immunisations reduce the risk of SIDS? A meta-analysis. Vaccine 2007; 25: 4875-4879.
• Kiechl-Kohlendorfer U, Moon RY. Sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) and child care centres (CCC). Acta Paediatrica 2008; 97: 844-845. Article

This group actively seeks the contribution and potential input from any ISPID member with an interest in this field.

Next Meeting

The epidemiology working group will be meeting in Sydney, Australia, on Thursday 7 October 2010 between 1300-1500 (1-3 p.m.) prior to the joint ISA/ISPID Conference. All conference attendees are very welcome to attend.