In a major breakthrough, researchers claimed to have found the leading cause of the Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS).

According to a study conducted by the University of Adelaide, chemical clues in the brains of SIDS victims now indicate a link to breathing problems.

The researchers have identified a link between SIDS and breathing problems, finding that tell-tale signs in the brains of babies who died of SIDS are remarkably similar to those of children who died of accidental asphyxiation.

The clue they have discovered may have already saved one child, whose sibling was a SIDS victim.

The clue pointing to possible breathing irregularities in the victim led to doctors identifying sleep apnoea in the sibling, leading to precautions to avoid a repeat of the tragedy.

SIDS, which kills dozens of babies without warning every year, is considered a parent's worst nightmare.

The results of the study are published in the journal Neuropathology and Applied Neurobiology and researchers believe that the findings could now help save countless infants of dying from SIDS.