Resources available to combat Shaken Baby Syndrome Published April 8, 2009 By Erin Hennessy Family Advocacy Program HANSCOM AIR FORCE BASE, Mass. -- The National Center on Shaken Baby Syndrome reports that every in year in the United States an estimated 1,200 to 1,400 children are injured or killed by shaking. The actual numbers may be much higher as many cases go undetected. Research on physical abuse suggests that 59 percent of all child abuse occurs in infants under the age of one. The National Center on Shaken Baby Syndrome has done extensive research and program development to educate the general public about SBS and its effects. Shaken Baby Syndrome, is a term used to describe the signs and symptoms resulting from violent shaking or shaking and impacting of the head of an infant or small child. This can cause severe brain damage and even death. Approximately 25 percent of all shaking victims die as a result of their injuries. Of those who survive 80 percent suffer permanent disability such as severe brain damage, cerebral palsy, mental retardation, behavior disorders and impaired motor and cognitive skills. In order to ensure that SBS is prevented here at Hanscom, information about how to prevent it is included in the DADS 101 class, Bundles for Babies Workshop and the New Parent Support Program. Parents are educated on infants normal crying patterns, soothing techniques and most importantly reminded and encouraged to call for help. Education about on and off base resources is provided. Major Paul Rivest, 66th Medical Group, a DADS 101 instructor, stresses the importance of educating the Hanscom community about SBS. "SBS is 100 percent preventable. Parents and caregivers typically shake babies to stop the crying. According to the statistics, males between the ages of 18-35 are most likely to shake a baby. The DADS 101 curriculum is aimed at educating this particular group," Major Rivest said. The Major went on to explain the challenges of caring for an infant. "Crying is one way a baby communicates. One reason crying can be so frustrating is because you don't know what it means or what to expect," he said. "Sometimes it may seem as though the crying is never going to end. You may be asking yourself if you are doing something wrong or feel as though you are an ineffective parent when, in fact most of this crying is normal and has nothing to do with the care the parent is providing." The National Center on Shaken Baby Syndrome states, "Even the most kind and loving caregiver can become frustrated by a crying baby. These feelings don't make you a bad caregiver. If you feel yourself getting upset or angry, put the baby in a safe place and take a few minutes to take care of yourself." The Center offers the following suggestions to combat Shaken Baby Syndrome: take a deep breath and count to ten; take time out and let the baby cry alone; call a friend or listen to some music for a few minutes. If a parent has tried multiple soothing techniques the baby is still crying, remember that is normal behavior. Some babies cry for extended periods of time and that is okay. Parents concerned about their infants inconsolable crying should contact their pediatrician. The Center also states, "Remember that crying, even inconsolable crying is a normal part of an infant's development." Parents and caregivers can utilize The Period of Purple Crying Program for education on infant crying patterns. Period of Purple Crying: P- Peak Pattern...Crying peaks around two months, decreasing after that U- Unpredictable...Crying can come and go unexpectedly, with no apparent reason R- Resistant to Soothing...Crying continues despite soothing efforts of caregivers P- Pain-Like Face...Healthy, crying infants can look like they are in pain, though they may not be L- Long Bouts...Crying can go on for 30 to 40 minutes and sometimes longer E- Evening Crying...Crying occurs more in the afternoon and evening. The only way to prevent shaken baby syndrome is to educate caregivers on the alternatives and support services available. For more information on any education programs offered at Hanscom call the Family Advocacy Program at 781-377-4617. The next DADS 101 class will be offered on April 24 at 8 a.m. To register call 781-377-4617.