Why do pacifiers/dummies have a protective effect in sudden infant death Syndrome? A new hypothesis

Abstract

The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends pacifier/dummy use to help prevent sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS). This recommendation is based on studies that have shown pacifier use reduces the risk of SIDS even under conditions regarded as increasing the risk of SIDS. Several unrelated mechanistic explanations have been used to explain this. These prior suggested mechanisms purported to underly the observed protective effect of pacifiers have not proven satisfactory and highlight the need for a more plausible explanation. Pacifier use is associated with increased salivary production. Saliva contains numerous antibacterial compounds that could provide a protective effect against bacterial colonisation. Infection is considered a key player in SIDS pathogenesis given that most SIDS risk factors relate to or align with infection, whereas mainstream research focusses on central homeostatic control of breathing, arousal and heart function. These, however, lack association with risk factors. Given infection is significant in the SIDS story, the increased production and antibacterial effect of saliva could provide an alternative mechanism worthy of consideration in the context of known preventable risk factors in the drive to reach a better understanding of SIDS pathogenesis and further decrease the incidence of SIDS.