March 2024: Sudden Unexplained Death in Childhood Awareness Month

WHEREAS, Sudden Unexplained Death in Childhood (SUDC) is a category of death in children between the ages of 1 and 18 that remains unexplained after a thorough investigation, including an autopsy; and,      

WHEREAS, each year, there are approximately 400 cases of SUDC in the United States – including more than 200 in younger children between the ages of 1 and 4 – who die without any clear cause or explanation; and,          

WHEREAS, while less common than sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS), which occurs before the first birthday, SUDC is an important health concern deserving of increased public awareness and research; and,          

WHEREAS, SUDC is the 5^th leading category of death among children ages 1 to 4 in the United States; and,           

WHEREAS, there is currently no way to predict or prevent SUDC, as its cause is unknown; and,           

WHEREAS, it is hoped that future research will identify means by which SUDC can be prevented; and,

WHEREAS, we recognize the dedicated efforts of organizations such as the SUDC Foundation, medical professionals, medicolegal death investigators, and volunteers who are working to better understand the causes of SUDC, improve the health of children, and provide much-needed support for families grieving the heartbreaking sudden, unexplained death of a child; and,

WHEREAS, Sudden Unexplained Death in Childhood Awareness Month provides an opportunity to honor the memory of the young lives that ended too soon, show support for the families and loved ones devastated by their loss, and increase awareness of SUDC;          

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Gretchen Whitmer, governor of the State of Michigan, do hereby proclaim March 2024 as Sudden Unexplained Death in Childhood Awareness Month in Michigan.