The National Center has a mission: “To educate and train parents and professionals, and to conduct research that will prevent the shaking and abuse of infants in the United States”.

Shaken baby syndrome (SBS) is the leading cause of death in abusive head trauma (AHT) cases. An estimated 1,200 to 1,400 children are injured or killed by shaking every year in the United States. Actual numbers may be much higher as many likely go undetected. Over 300 babies a year die from being shaken in the United States.

Approximately 25 percent of all SBS/AHT victims die as a result of their injuries. Of those who survive 80% suffer permanent disability such as severe brain damage, cerebral palsy, mental retardation, behavioral disorders and impaired motor and cognitive skills. Many survivors require constant medical or personal attention, which places tremendous emotional and financial strain on families. Medical costs associated with initial and long-term care for these children can range from $300,000 to more than $1,000,000.

The National Center on Shaken Baby Syndrome (NCSBS) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization and is the only worldwide organization that is dedicated solely to the prevention of this form of child abuse. The National Center began offering SBS prevention programs in 1990 and incorporated as a legal entity in 2000. The NCSBS has been providing leadership in the development of prevention programs, training courses and public education campaigns. Every year, the National Center's ongoing training efforts reach thousands of medical, legal, child protection and law enforcement professionals worldwide. The prevention and awareness programs also teach thousands of parents, students and caregivers throughout the world. These programs cannot continue to reach communities without the support of people who share our commitment to protect children.

The NCSBS focuses their efforts in two areas: professional training for those who work with SBS/AHT cases, and prevention education for parents and those who work to prevent child abuse. You can help us in this battle to stop all shaking of infants and children. If you want to start a program or donate to this cause, please follow the website links to those opportunities you seek. You can also call our office at 801-627-3399 or toll free in the Continental United States at 1-888-273-0071. Thank you for your interest.