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NEC Baby Formula Lawsuit
Many families in New Mexico, are facing heartbreak due to serious complications resulting from the use of certain baby formulas. Recent studies have linked the consumption of cow’s milk-based formulas by premature infants to a life-threatening condition known as Necrotizing Enterocolitis (NEC).
If your premature baby has suffered injuries associated with NEC, contact our skilled NEC Baby Formula Injury Lawyers today to pursue the manufacturer for the financial recovery you deserve. For a free consultation, call (505) 390-1040.
NEC Baby Formula Injury Lawyers in New Mexico
What is Necrotizing Enterocolitis (NEC)?
Necrotizing Enterocolitis (NEC) is a serious gastrointestinal condition that primarily affects premature infants, typically within the first few weeks of life. This dangerous condition causes inflammation and can lead to the destruction of the infant’s intestinal tissue, potentially resulting in death or requiring invasive surgeries. For families who have trusted popular baby formulas like Similac and Enfamil, the link between these cow’s milk-based formulas and NEC has been devastating.
Statistics show that 5% to 12% of infants born prematurely in the United States develop NEC.
In New Mexico, around 9,000 babies are born prematurely each year. This means that hundreds of families could be affected by NEC, a dangerous condition linked to cow’s milk-based formulas.
A 2019 study by the American Academy of Pediatrics found that infants born before 32 weeks of gestation are at a much higher risk of developing NEC (necrotizing enterocolitis). In fact, these infants are eight times more likely to develop NEC when fed cow’s milk-based formula. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that NEC accounts for 15% of all premature infant deaths each year in the U.S.
NEC Symptoms
Understanding the symptoms of Necrotizing Enterocolitis (NEC) is crucial for parents and caregivers, particularly for those with premature infants. Early recognition can be vital for effective treatment and can significantly affect outcomes.
Common NEC symptoms to be aware of include:
Abdominal swelling or distension: This can manifest as a firm, swollen belly, indicating potential inflammation or gas buildup.
Feeding intolerance: Infants may show signs of distress or refusal to feed, often accompanied by vomiting or increased gastric residuals.
Changes in stool: This may include bloody stools, which can indicate serious intestinal damage.
Decreased activity: Infants may appear unusually tired or less active than usual.
Temperature instability: Fluctuations in body temperature can signal infection or other complications.
Rapid heart rate or breathing: Increased heart and respiratory rates may indicate distress.
Who Can File a NEC Baby Formula Lawsuit in New Mexico?
Families in New Mexico, especially in Albuquerque, whose infants developed NEC after being fed cow’s milk-based formulas may be entitled to compensation. To file a lawsuit, it must be demonstrated that:
To file a NEC Baby Formulae lawsuit, You must have to prove that Your infant was born prematurely.
Your baby was fed cow’s milk-based formula, such as Similac or Enfamil, either in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) or at home.
Your baby developed NEC, resulting in either death or severe complications such as intestinal surgery or long-term health issues.
What Compensation Can You Recover in an NEC Lawsuit?
If your baby developed NEC due to exposure to cow’s milk-based formula, you may be entitled to several types of compensation, including:
Medical Expenses
This includes costs related to the treatment of NEC, such as surgeries, hospital stays, and long-term care.
Pain and Suffering
Compensation for the physical pain endured by the infant, as well as emotional distress experienced by the family.
Wrongful Death
If NEC led to the loss of your child, you may be eligible for compensation for wrongful death.
Punitive Damages
These damages aim to punish formula manufacturers for their negligence and their failure to adequately warn about the risks associated with their products.
Filing a NEC Baby Formula Lawsuit in Albuquerque, New Mexico
If you live in New Mexico and think your child developed NEC from cow’s milk-based formula, it’s essential to act quickly. The Statute of Limitations in New Mexico typically requires that lawsuits be filed within three years of the injury or Wrongful Death.
However, specific circumstances may allow for extensions, which is why consulting with a knowledgeable NEC Baby Formula Attorney is essential.
How Raymon Law Group Can Help You
If your baby developed NEC after being fed a cow’s milk-based formula, you deserve answers and accountability.
Our legal team has the knowledge, resources, and dedication needed to take on major corporations like Abbott Laboratories and Mead Johnson. We understand the emotional toll these cases can take on families, and we are committed to providing compassionate and effective representation.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Necrotizing Enterocolitis (NEC) can lead to several long-term health issues in infants who survive the condition. These may include intestinal strictures, which can cause bowel obstructions, long-term feeding difficulties, and growth issues. Additionally, some infants may experience developmental delays or neurological complications, highlighting the importance of immediate medical intervention and ongoing care for affected children.
Yes, research indicates that breast milk can significantly reduce the risk of Necrotizing Enterocolitis (NEC) in premature infants. Human milk is more easily digestible and contains essential nutrients and antibodies that support the infant's immune system. Studies show that infants who are exclusively breastfed have a sixfold lower risk of developing NEC compared to those fed cow’s milk-based formulas. Therefore, healthcare providers often recommend breast milk as the optimal feeding choice for premature infants whenever possible.
The diagnosis of Necrotizing Enterocolitis (NEC) in infants typically begins with a thorough clinical evaluation by healthcare providers. Physicians will assess the infant’s symptoms, including abdominal swelling, feeding intolerance, and any signs of infection. Diagnostic imaging, such as abdominal X-rays, may be utilized to look for signs of intestinal perforation or abnormal gas patterns in the intestines. Blood tests can also provide information about infection and inflammation levels. In some cases, additional imaging studies, like an ultrasound or CT scan, might be needed to confirm the diagnosis and determine the severity of the condition.
Yes, infants who survive Necrotizing Enterocolitis (NEC) may face various long-term complications. Some children may experience intestinal strictures, leading to bowel obstructions and requiring additional surgical interventions. Others may have ongoing feeding difficulties, which can affect their growth and development. Additionally, there is an increased risk of long-term neurodevelopmental issues, including delays in motor skills and cognitive development. Regular follow-up care and monitoring are essential for children who have had NEC to address any complications that may arise.
Contact Our Skilled NEC Injury and Death Attorneys in New Mexico
To learn more about how we can help you file a NEC baby formula lawsuit, contact Raymon Law Group today at (505) 390-1040.
We offer free consultations to families across New Mexico and are ready to help you seek justice for your child.
