risk of this happening to their baby and we want to get that message out here in Jacksonville.” Infant mortality is considered a basic measure of public health for countries around the world. “It is truly evident that Kappa Alpha Psi ® has embraced its national platform to foster strong families by providing young women, men and children with the resources they need to thrive,” stated Dr. Pamela M. Davis, Executive Director of the Office of Prevention & Alterna- tive Programs for DCPS. “The event was a great oppor- tunity to link teen parents with a high-quality resource that they perhaps would not have other- wise purchased for themselves.” Florida’s infant mortality rate is decreasing, but that isn’t the case in Duval County where the infant mortality rate is higher than the state average. For Afri- can American babies, the number is disproportionately higher, according to the Duval County Health Department. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends that parents and caregivers follow the guidelines to the right.
• Babies should always sleep on their backs, at nighttime and naptime. Tummy and side sleeping are not safe • Use a safety approved crib with a firm mattress and a tight- fitting sheet for sleep. Room share with your baby by making sure their crib is placed near your bed for at least the first six months • Do not share a bed or couch with your baby. Make sure your baby has its own separate sleep space. Never let your baby sleep on soft surfaces such as adult beds, water beds, sofas, chairs, comforters and sheepskins • Keep all soft bedding out of your baby’s crib. This includes loose bedding, stuffed animals and bumper pads • Avoid overheating. Dress your baby like you would dress and keep the room temperature comfortable, not too warm • Pregnant women should receive regular prenatal care • Do not smoke during or after your pregnancy and avoid exposure to second hand smoke. These put your baby at a greater risk of dying fromSIDS • Avoid alcohol and illicit drug use during pregnancy and after birth • Breastfeeding is recommended • Use a pacifier at naptime and nighttime after breastfeeding has been established • Do not use commercial devises marketed to reduce the risk of SIDS such as wedges and positioners. None have been proven safe or effective
26 th Grand Polemarch Dr. Ullysses McBride, Grand Polemarch Thomas L. Battles, Jr. and Dr. Edward R. Scott II, sign the roll during the SIDS awareness presentation hosted by the Jacksonville (FL) Alumni Chapter (JAC). Back row: JAC members James Perkins, Mark Chapman III and Dr. Frank S. Emanuel. Right: Kathryn Neal, Southern Province Polemarch Bertram K. Orum, Brenda Beale and First Lady Geraldine Battles also supported the event.
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THE JOURNAL SPRING 2017 | 29
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