In recent years, there has been an alarming increase in the number of necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) cases in premature babiesNEC is a potentially deadly condition that affects the intestines, and it is most often caused by infection. However, researchers have now identified another possible cause of NEC: baby formula.
Premature babies, born before 37 weeks of gestation are particularly vulnerable to the effects of baby formula because their digestive systems are not fully developed. When they consume formula that contains toxins, these harmful substances can damage the intestinal lining and lead to NEC. In some cases, the damage is so severe that the entire intestine must be removed.
Unfortunately, the use of baby formula has been linked to an increased risk of NEC.
The following are some of the health problems that can be caused by NEC:
- Intestinal perforation: NEC can lead to a hole in the wall of the intestine, which can cause bacteria to leak into the abdominal cavity and lead to serious infection.
- Sepsis: NEC can also cause a serious systemic infection called sepsis, which can lead to organ failure and death.
- Malnutrition: NEC can cause poor absorption of nutrients, leading to malnutrition and slow growth.
- Bowel obstruction: NEC can cause scarring and narrowing of the intestine, leading to bowel obstruction and difficulty passing stool.
- Short bowel syndrome: In severe cases, NEC can cause enough damage to the intestine that it needs to be surgically removed, leading to a condition called short bowel syndrome.
If your child has been affected by this issue due to baby formula, you may be entitled to compensation. An experienced lawyer can help you evaluate your options and fight for the justice you deserve.
Christopher Ligori & Associates are experienced personal injury lawyers who can help you evaluate your options, gather evidence and fight for the compensation you deserve. They can help you navigate the legal system, understand your rights and represent you in court.
Don’t wait, contact Christopher Ligori & Associates today to discuss your case and see how they can help you and your family get the justice you deserve.
Lawsuits Against Baby Formula Producers: What We Know
NEC is a serious and potentially fatal disease that primarily affects premature infants. It is characterized by inflammation and damage to the lining of the intestines and can lead to sepsis, organ failure, and death. NEC is most often diagnosed in babies born before 37 weeks of gestation.
In the United States, NEC occurs in approximately 1-2% of all live births and is responsible for up to 30% of all infant deaths.
Several recent baby formula lawsuits have been filed against the manufacturers of Similac and Enfamil baby formula brands, alleging that their products are linked to an increased risk of baby-developed NEC. These lawsuits claim that the companies knew or should have known about the dangers associated with their baby formula products but failed to adequately warn consumers. The plaintiffs allege that they would not have fed their babies the formulas if they had been aware of the risks.
Similac and Enfamil have both denied any wrongdoing in these baby formula lawsuits and have defended their products as safe and effective. However, the lawsuits continue to move forward, and it remains to be seen whether or not the companies will be held liable for any damages caused by their products.
Most recently, an infant’s parents have filed a personal injury lawsuit for financial relief after their premature son had been fed a cow’s milk-based formula such as Enfamil and/or Similac and developed NEC. Unfortunately, a large part of their son’s intestines had to be removed as a result.
The Science: Formula and Premature Infants
New studies have found that cow’s milk-based baby formula may increase the risk of NEC in preterm babies. Researchers found that those who were fed cow’s milk-based formula were more than 320% more likely to develop NEC than those who were fed soy-based formula or human breast milk.
NEC: What To Look Out For in Premature Babies
Necrotizing enterocolitis, or NEC, is a serious illness that primarily affects newborns. The condition occurs when the tissue in the intestines begins to die, and it can be life-threatening if not treated immediately.
While NEC can occur in any newborn, it is most common in premature babies. Although the exact cause of NEC is unknown, it is believed to be related to an immature immune system, gut bacteria and most recently, baby formula.
There are several signs that parents can look for that may indicate that their baby has NEC. These include:
- lack of appetite
- lethargy
- bloated abdomen
- vomiting
- bloody stools.
If parents notice any of these signs, they should immediately contact their child’s healthcare provider. Early diagnosis and treatment are essential for preventing serious complications from NEC.
Health Risks Your Baby May Face with NEC
If not treated immediately, your baby could risk facing serious health conditions, including:
- sepsis
- narrowing of the intestines (intestinal stricture)
- growth failure and/or developmental delays
- infection in the abdomen (peritonitis)
- poor neurodevelopment
- short bowel syndrome.
What Can You Recover in a Baby Formula Lawsuit?
If your child was fed Similac, Enfamil or other cow’s milk-based formula from similar manufacturers while in a neonatal intensive care unit and developed necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC), you may be able to file for various damages.
If your child developed NEC after being fed formula, you may be able to file a baby formula lawsuit for past and future medical expenses, pain and suffering, and other damages.
If your child passed away due to NEC, you might also be able to file a wrongful death claim. An experienced attorney can help you understand your legal options and recover the compensation you deserve.
How Can Chris Ligori & Associates Help You?
If your child has been diagnosed with necrotizing enterocolitis, you may be wondering if you have any legal recourse available to you. This condition, which is often caused by contaminated baby formula, can be extremely serious, leading to organ damage and even death.
Fortunately, the attorneys at Christopher Ligori & Associates are here to help. We have extensive experience handling cases involving defective products, and we know how to get results. We will work tirelessly to help you hold the responsible parties accountable and recover the compensation you deserve in your baby formula lawsuit.
Contact us today to schedule a free consultation. We’ll answer all of your questions and help you understand your rights and options.
