Sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) has baffled doctors for decades. But is the mystery of SIDS, solved? A study led by researcher Dr Jhodie Duncan, of the Melbourne-based Florey Neuroscience Institutes, has discovered a clue to why seemingly healthy babies become victims of SIDS.

Dr Duncan’s team of researchers believe babies who suffered SIDS have insufficient serotonin, a neurotransmitter substance in the brainstem that regulates life sustaining bodily functions, one of which is breathing. Low level of serotonin may be the cause of why babies who die from SIDS, suddenly stops breathing. One of the responsibilities of serotonin is regulate breathing. When a baby’s breathing is distrupted, serotonin sends a signal to the brain to awake the baby.

I believe like me, every mother to a newborn or infant is spooked by stories of SIDS. I have read all about anti-SIDS safety practises. But this breakthrough study sheds scientific proof on SIDS. I hope further research goes into this study and soon in the future, newborns are routinely tested for serotonin deficiency.