Abstract
Aim: This study aimed to investigate the prevalence of family violence (FV) in sudden Unexpected Death in Infancy (SUDI) cases in New Zealand.
Methods: A case-control study was implemented from March 2012 to February 2015. Cases comprised all SUDI deaths referred to the coroner. Controls were selected randomly, based on characteristics of previous SUDI deaths. The primary risk factor assessed was exposure to "family violence ever".
Results: Of 258 controls, 248 (96.1%) had FV data and 73 (29.4%) had ever experienced FV. Among 132 SUDI cases, 58 (43.9%) had FV data and 35 (60.3%) had ever experienced FV. Adjusted risk factors associated with FV in controls included being in a de facto relationship, being single, mother's current partner not being the baby's biological father, maternal depression during pregnancy, and the number of previous pregnancies. In the multivariable model, FV was significantly associated with an increased risk of SUDI (OR 2.57 (95% CI 1.14, 5.81)).
Conclusion: In this study, a history of FV was a significant risk factor for SUDI. Routine screening for FV exposure during perinatal and postnatal care is crucial, with appropriate support and referrals offered to affected families to potentially reduce SUDI risk.