1. United States
2. Ga.
3. Letter

The elimination of the Safe to Sleep campaign by the National Institutes of Health is a major setback in efforts to reduce sleep-related infant deaths. For three decades, this vital public health initiative has helped educate parents and caregivers on evidence-based safe sleep practices, contributing to a 50% decrease in sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) cases. With recent data showing an alarming 12% rise in sleep-related infant deaths from 2020 to 2022, it is deeply concerning that the resources and expertise behind this campaign are being dismantled. Safe infant sleep is a matter of life and death, and all families deserve access to clear, reliable information to protect their babies. Cutting funding and personnel for Safe to Sleep puts vulnerable infants at increased risk and undermines years of progress. This short-sighted decision jeopardizes the health and well-being of our youngest citizens. Urgent action is needed to reinstate the Safe to Sleep campaign and its comprehensive efforts to promote safe sleep environments and prevent tragic losses. Investing in proven public health measures is one of the most fundamental responsibilities of our government. Failing to do so is unacceptable when young lives are at stake. The safety and future of our children must be the top priority.