1. Shaken Baby Syndrome

2. SBS Facts
1,200-1,600 reported cases of SBS occur each year in the United States alone.
25-35% of SBS victims die from their injuries
Remaining 75% often suffer permanent injury and lifelong disabilities
Most common cause of death in abused infants and young children.
Most SBS victims are less than one year old
Majority are under 6 months

3. The Perpetrators
60-70% of SBS perpetrators are male, usually the child’s father or mother’s boyfriend.
Others include mothers, grandparents, stepparents, other relatives, childcare providers.
Most cases, inconsolable crying is the number one trigger of shaking an infant.
Anyone who may become frustrated is capable of shaking an infant.

4. Unique Infant Characteristics
Heavy Head – 25% of total body weight
Weak neck muscles – disproportionate to large head
Fragile, undeveloped brain – easily injured by shaking
Delicate blood vessels around brain – susceptible to tearing
Large space inside skull – increases force

5. During a Shaking Affected 1st: Back of the brain (occipital lobe)
Associated Injury: Vision
Affected 2nd: Front of the brain (frontal lobe)
Associated Injury: Memory and emotion
Affected 3rd: Middle of the brain (parietal lobe)
Associated Injury: Movement of arms and legs, speech, or even death

6. SBS Information
Elijah's Story