Center for CardioGenetics

Montefiore Einstein Center for CardioGenetics
Genetic testing for families after the tragedy of SIDS and SUDS

from Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) or Sudden Unexpected Death Syndrome (SUDS), you want answers.

"What caused this unexpected death?" "Are my other children at risk?" "How can I protect my family?"

Get answers to your questions about inherited SIDS and SUDS

At Montefiore Einstein Center for CardioGenetics (MECC), a program of The Children's Hospital at Montefiore (CHAM), we can help.

When you come to MECC, a team of experts works with you to:

• Find out if genetics played a role in your child's SIDS or SUDS
• Identify or rule out SIDS and SUDS risks to your children or other family members
• Provide preventative medical care for at-risk children and family members

Want to make an appointment now? Contact us.

SIDS: Number one killer of U.S. infants age 1 month to 1 year

In the United States, more than 4,000 children and young people die each year from undiagnosed heart disturbances called arrhythmias.

Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) is the term used when a child under 1-year-old dies and complete medical investigation reveals no cause of death. SIDS is the leading killer of infants age 1 month to 1 year in the United States.

Want to learn more about SIDS? Get detailed information in our Health Library.

Sudden Unexpected Death Syndrome (SUDS) is the term used when a young person over 1-year old dies and complete medical investigation reveals no cause of death.

Does genetics play a part in SIDS and SUDS?

Today scientists know that at least one out of every three SIDS and SUDS deaths involve a genetic disorder. But until recently families had little choice but to live burdened with fear.

Complete SIDS/SUDS testing and preventative care now available in New York

MECC provides comprehensive genetic testing and preventative care for families at risk for SIDS and SUDS.

All counseling and testing services are conveniently located under one roof in our child-friendly facility at CHAM.

Our one-stop services for your family include:

• Genetic counseling to explore your family's medical history
• Genetic testing of autopsy blood samples, in cooperation with the Office of the Medical Examiner of New York City
• Genetic testing of family members, when appropriate
• Complete physical exam
• Counsel and support from a trained social worker
• Assessment from an adult or children's cardiologist and a complete range of painless, noninvasive heart tests
• Consultation with adult or children's neurological and metabolic experts, when needed
• Complete confidentiality: MECC keeps your information private and uses it for medical purposes only

Solutions that help your family move forward without fear

After testing, your family meets with the MECC team to discuss a treatment plan that may include:

• Additional testing, if you or a family member carries genes associated with heart disorders
• Customized preventative treatment that may involve lifestyle change, medication or placement of a heart device
• Ongoing follow-up care

Remember your loved one and help the fight against SIDS and SUDS

You never "get over" the loss of a child or beloved family member. But at MECC you can turn your grief into positive action, with your permission your family's information becomes part of a database that supports the latest SIDS and SUDS research.

MECC's goal is to eliminate SIDS and SUDS in your lifetime.