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Apr 13, 2006 8:44 am US/Mountain
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Radio Spot Hopes To Prevent Shaken Baby Syndrome
by Kathy Walsh
DENVER (CBS4) ―
Thirty-nine radio stations joined forces for children Wednesday by airing the same 30-second announcement of a baby sobbing inconsolably at about noon. The radio spot was part of a statewide effort to combat shaken baby syndrome.
Shaken baby syndrome is a serious head injury that occurs when a child is severely or violently shaken. The syndrome is the leading cause of death among child abuse cases in the United States.
"The important thing to remember, we have to remind people, is that babies cry," Dr. Andrew Sirotnak of the Kempe Child Protection Team said.
Experts said there are steps to take when a crying baby is too much for a parent or day care provider. They said people should call a doctor, nurse or nurse help line. Other ideas include placing the baby down in a crib or other safe place and walk away for a few minutes. Experts said the key is for parents or care providers to get control of their emotions.
The campaign said the bottom line was to take a break, don't shake.
(© MMVI CBS Television Stations, Inc. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.)