Developmental delays are a common and worrisome consequence of necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC), a life-threatening intestinal disease. NEC can hinder a baby’s ability to absorb nutrients; when combined with the stress and trauma of treatment, this condition can have major consequences on their growth. Our NEC baby formula injury attorneys are ready to fight for justice for your family today.
What Are Developmental Delays and How Do They Affect Infants?
Developmental delays occur when an infant fails to meet expected milestones in key areas, such as language, motor skills, social skills, and cognition. While every child develops at their own pace, significant lags can indicate underlying issues that require intervention.
For infants, developmental delays can manifest in various ways:
- Delays in rolling over, crawling, walking, or other motor skills
- Limited babbling, slower vocabulary growth, or difficulties with speech
- Lack of eye contact, social engagement, or interest in others
- Challenges with problem-solving or reasoning abilities
How NEC Can Lead to Developmental Delays
Infants who develop NEC can suffer serious complications that can significantly impact their development. NEC causes inflammation and damage to the intestinal tract, which can cause malnutrition and long-term issues with nutrient absorption. The stress on the body from fighting this severe infection, combined with potential surgeries, long hospital stays, and extended periods without proper nutrition, can take a toll on an infant’s developing brain and body.
These complications can result in lasting challenges with cognition, motor skills, sensory processing, and behavior. One study revealed that 24% of infants with NEC experienced at least one major neurodevelopmental disability, compared to only 10% in the control group. Babies who developed this condition were more likely to suffer from issues like cognitive delays and visual impairment.
Filing a Lawsuit for NEC Caused by Baby Formula
If your child developed NEC after consuming cow’s milk-based formula, you may have grounds for legal action against the formula manufacturer. Across the United States, families are currently pursuing compensation for medical expenses, ongoing care needs, and the long-term impacts of developmental delays.
To qualify for an NEC baby formula lawsuit, you will need to prove that your child consumed a cow’s milk-based formula and was later diagnosed with this condition. If you are unsure whether you are eligible, it is important to speak with an attorney as soon as possible.
An attorney can review your situation and determine your optimal course of legal action. If you decide to file, your lawyer can guide your family through every step of the process and alleviate the legal burden during an already stressful time. They can help:
- Calculate the full value of your potential settlement
- Gather the necessary medical records and evidence to support your claim
- Negotiate with insurance companies and other parties involved
- Advocate for your child’s rights and protect your family’s interests
Contact Shapiro Legal Group, PLLC for a Free Case Review
Developmental delays caused by NEC can have a profound impact on your child’s life. If your child developed this condition after drinking a formula that you believed to be safe, you need a strong legal advocate on your side.
At Shapiro Legal Group, PLLC, our attorneys are committed to helping families affected by NEC secure the compensation they deserve. We will work tirelessly to recover the support and resources that your child needs to thrive. Contact us at (800) 220-0984 for a free consultation.