RESUMO
A retrospective study of cot death was carried out in Guadeloupe, FWI over the two-year period 1989 - 1990 by analysis of data from post-perinatal infant mortality (PPIM). Information was obtained from death certificates, hospital records and telephone calls to general practitioners. The PPIM. rate 5.2 percent per 1,000 live births (LB) forms an important part of infant mortality. The 82 deaths (PPIM) were divided into four main categories: perinatal disease (42 percent), congenital disorders (18 percent), acquired disease or accidents (17 percent), cot death or unknown cause of death at home (22 percent). Cot deaths were subdivided into known causes, possible causes and unexplained death with or without necropsy. Of the 12 cot deaths no necropsy was obtained but a satisfactory explanation was found in half of the cases. This study showed a low sudden death rate between 0.8 and 1.2/1,000 LB. One-half of deaths occurred in babies who remained in hospital from birth. A quarter of deaths (among acquired diseases and cot deaths) could have been avoided if these babies had received adequate management (AU)