Sudden infant death syndrome (crib death) and possible relation to long-term mattress compression.

Evidence is presented to show that standard mattresses compress infants enough to increase the work required to maintain normal levels of ventilation and cellular respiration. The possible relation of long-term standard mattress compression to Sudden Infant Death Syndrome is proposed. Evidence is presented to show that waterbeds do not compress infants significantly. The suggestion is made that, if long-term standard mattress compression is related to Sudden Infant Death Syndrome, then the use of waterbeds designed for babies may help reduce crib deaths.