Campaign Focuses on Shaken Baby Syndrome

Week of April 30, 2007

The Defense Department has launched a new military family initiative aimed at stopping or reducing the incidence of "Shaken Baby Syndrome." Frustrated parents, especially fathers, can negatively react to their baby's cries by shaking it, an act that can seriously harm or even kill the infant, explained David W. Lloyd, director for the Defense Department's Family Advocacy Program. "Never shake a baby. The injuries can range from death to serious head trauma - meaning skull fractures, blindness, learning disabilities and stunted growth," Lloyd said. For more information on Shaken Baby Syndrome, visit http://www.dontshake.org/. Military parents can also access a 24-hour counseling line at 1-800-342-9647 to asked questions about Shaken Baby Syndrome and other issues.

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