Contact a necrotizing enterocolitis baby formula lawyer at Wieand Law Firm LLC if you have been harmed by defective baby formula. Recent research has pointed to the link between Necrotizing Enterocolitis (NEC) and baby formula in premature infants. Many parents recognized the need for nutritional support of their premature infants and used cows milk based infant formula, such as Enfamil or Similac, to help their growth and development. However, scientific literature shows that these formulas increase the risk of a NEC, a dangerous bacterial infection that can cause severe illness and death for infants. Despite knowing about the risk, the baby formula manufacturers failed to warn parents.
Necrotizing Enterocolitis or NEC, is a condition in which bacteria attack the wall of the intestine and cause inflammation. This inflammation can tear a hole in the intestine that allows bacteria to seep into the abdomen. Left untreated, a serious infection can develop resulting in significant medical problems or death.
While NEC is rare, it predominately affects premature babies who weigh less than 3.25lbs and other high-risk infants. Within the first 2 weeks of life, and infant with NEC may develop signs such as a swollen belly, bloody stool, green vomit, and trouble breathing or low heart rate.
NEC can lead to additional serious health issues, including an abdominal infection called peritonitis. If bacteria enter the bloodstream, a sepsis reaction can occur. Infants who survive the immediate infection may still have health issues such as intestinal strictures that make it difficult for food to pass through their intestines. Another health complication is short bowel syndrome, which is a condition in which the body cannot absorb enough nutrients. These complications can cause long-term or permanent problems for the infant.
Sadly, some babies are not strong enough to survive NEC and its complications. Infants who weigh less than 3.3lbs are most at risk, with a mortality rate of 10-50%. Infants who weigh at least 5.5lbs. still have a mortality rate between 0% – 20%. Those who do survive often suffer with long-term or health problems affecting their growth and neurodevelopment.
What Formulas are being Investigated for Necrotizing Enterocolitis (NEC)?
The Wieand Law Firm LLC is investigating the below cows-milk based formulas which may be linked to necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) in premature infants.
Parents should consider if certain brands that offer alternatives to cow-milk based formulas may be a safer choice for their baby.
A necrotizing enterocolitis baby formula lawyer at the Wieand Law Firm, LLC, can help investigate your claim and advise of your legal options. We believe that parents should be warned if a baby formula marketed as a healthy option for premature babies put them at risk for NEC. Our necrotizing enterocolitis baby formula attorneys are currently investigating claims regarding NEC and baby formula. An experienced attorney from our firm can help you understand your legal rights and navigate the complicated legal process. Our goal is to find the best possible outcome for your case, so that you can focus on your family. You can speak directly to an attorney about your situation and get the legal guidance you deserve for your family.
To find out more about how we can help, call 215-666-7777 or send us a message today.
