Md. Officials To Announce Steps On Baby Crib Pads

ANNAPOLIS, Md. (AP) -- The Maryland health department will be discussing its next steps in an investigation into baby crib bumper pads, which some studies have linked to asphyxia and death in young infants.

The Maryland Department of Health and Mental Hygiene announced Monday that several state and local health officials will be gathering to talk about the state's investigation on Tuesday in Baltimore.

Health department secretary Joshua Sharfstein is scheduled to attend with Dr. David Fowler, chief medical examiner for Maryland.

Dr. Oxiris Barbot, Baltimore City's health commissioner, also is scheduled to attend.

Sharfstein on Monday declined to comment on specifics ahead of the announcement. He says "we'll explain our position" on Tuesday.

Bumper pads are cushions that line a crib. Makers say they prevent babies from hitting their heads.

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