Use of duvets and the risk of sudden infant death syndrome

Abstract

Background - The use of duvets in infancy is not recommended in the UK and Australia because of a reported association with sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS). Aims - To examine the association between the use of duvets and the risk of SIDS. Methods - A nationwide case control study (393 cases, 1592 controls). The use of duvets was assessed by interview with the parent or guardian. Results - The use of duvets was associated with an increased risk of SIDS (odds ratio (OR) = 1.65; 95% confidence interval (CI), 1.31 to 2.08); however, after adjustment for potential confounders there was no increased risk of SIDS (OR = 1.04; 95% CI, 0.77 to 1.38). Furthermore, subgroup analysis did not identify any group in which the use of duvets was associated with an increased risk of SIDS. Conclusions - This study does not support the recommendation to avoid duvets.