Explore the critical aspects of Necrotizing Enterocolitis (NEC), a serious condition affecting premature infants, and learn how it can impact your family.
Every parent's worst nightmare is their child suffering or becoming seriously ill. Tragically, some parents are forced to face these challenges early in their child’s life.
Necrotizing Enterocolitis (NEC) is a severe intestinal condition primarily affecting premature infants. This disease has been linked to specific baby formulas.
Parents or guardians of premature infants suffering from NEC could be eligible to join the lawsuit against the manufacturers of these formulas.
In this guide, we’ll explore NEC, learn how it can impact your family, and explore your options for seeking justice where necessary.
What is Necrotizing Enterocolitis (NEC)?
Every year in the US, thousands of babies develop NEC, and hundreds of these babies tragically die from this complex condition, according to the NEC Society. Thankfully, many babies do make a full recovery from NEC.
However, of the infants who do survive, some will unfortunately deal with lifelong neurological and nutritional complications due to the disease. While survival rates are improving, NEC can still have tragic outcomes for diagnosed infants. According to the National Institute of Health, mortality from the disease ranges between 10% and 50%. In extreme cases, such as when bowels are perforated, or sepsis occurs, NEC mortality rates reach nearly 100%.
Identifying the Risk Factors for NEC
Premature birth is the most significant risk factor for NEC, as the condition primarily affects infants born before 37 weeks of gestation. Other risk factors include low birth weight, formula feeding, and complications during the birth.
Understanding these risk factors can help parents and healthcare providers take proactive steps to reduce the likelihood of NEC developing in premature infants.
The Risk of Cow's Milk-Based Formulas and NEC
One significant risk factor for developing NEC is the use of certain cow's milk-based formulas. Studies have shown a correlation between these formulas and an increased risk of NEC in premature infants. Cow's milk-based breast milk fortifiers have also been implicated in elevating the risk.
Healthcare providers often recommend breastfeeding or using human milk fortifiers to mitigate this risk. Parents should discuss feeding options with their healthcare provider to ensure the safest outcomes for their infant.
Support and Resources for Parents Dealing with NEC
Dealing with NEC can be overwhelming for parents, but numerous support and resources are available. Hospitals often have neonatal specialists, social workers, and support groups to help families navigate the emotional and medical challenges associated with NEC.
Online communities, such as forums and social media groups, can also provide valuable support as well as information from other parents who have experienced similar journeys.
If you’re looking to take legal action, Legal Injury Advocates is here to help guide you through the process.
Legal Rights and Potential Compensation for Families
Families of premature infants who developed NEC after being fed cow's milk-based formulas might be entitled to compensation. Legal action can help cover medical expenses, long-term care, and other costs associated with the condition. As is the case for all mass tort claims, compensation amounts and details vary case-by-case.
Eligibility typically includes proof that the infant was fed the infant cow's milk-based formula or breast milk fortifier, a diagnosis of NEC in a premature infant, and evidence linking the development of NEC to the formula used.
Helping Parents on Their Journey to Justice
If you believe your infant developed NEC due to cow's milk-based formulas, reaching out to Legal Injury Advocates can be a crucial step. Our team of professionals can provide more information. We offer free initial case evaluations, and you can get started today.
Taking legal action can help your family find the justice they deserve. Additionally, cases like this can help bring broader awareness and potentially prevent future instances of NEC linked to cow's milk-based formulas.
Reach out to the Legal Injury Advocates to start your journey to justice today!
