Women’s Prison Closes After Widespread Staff Sexual Abuse

The US Bureau of Prisons (BoP) has faced criticism for the terrible conditions women experience while in jail. The agency recently announced the permanent closure of a California women’s prison following widespread reports of staff sexual abuse.

This facility became the center of a scandal. Guards abused their power to commit sexual violence against women in prison. These women should have been protected while serving their sentences.

Shockingly, this is part of a broader crisis within the BoP. Federal prisons nationwide are facing intensifying scrutiny for rampant sexual abuse, suicides, preventable deaths, and severe medical neglect.

If you or someone you know is sexually assaulted, please reach out for help. You can also contact us if someone dies from a preventable death in prison. Call The Yost Legal Group at 1-800-967-8529. You can speak with an experienced sexual abuse lawyer for free.

Guards commit sexual violence against women in prison

FCI Dublin Scandal Results in Prison Closure and Accountability

Instead of providing a safe and rehabilitative environment, these institutions have become places of unchecked trauma and systemic failure.

The closure of this prison and the suspension of operations at six additional facilities highlight an urgent need for accountability and sweeping reforms.

Vulnerable individuals deserve protection—not exploitation—while in custody. We must demand systemic changes to end this abuse and neglect within the US prison system.

Speak up and get help from our law firm and prisoner advocacy groups that work to stop abuse in prisons.

“Rape Club” Prison Finally Shuts Down After Widespread Misconduct

The Federal Correctional Institution (FCI) Dublin, a low-security prison east of Oakland, is closing for good. This decision comes after serious misconduct by its staff.

Internally referred to as the “rape club,” FCI Dublin became infamous for systematic sexual abuse perpetrated by correctional officers against incarcerated women.

To date, seven former officers, including the former warden, have been criminally convicted of various sexual offenses. Additionally, over 20 staff members have been placed on administrative leave, facing ongoing investigations for their actions. Staff sexual abuse is rampant in prisons throughout the country, and there must be reforms to fix this serious problem.

The facility closed after it was temporarily shut down in April. A US judge appointed a special master to manage operations because of ongoing scandals. Hundreds of female inmates there have since been relocated to other institutions nationwide.

This closure signals a critical shift in addressing and exposing misconduct within correctional institutions. Still, it is only the beginning of the fight for justice for the survivors of this abuse.

One of the worst violations that female inmates face is sexual abuse

The Truth Behind BoP Facility Closures

The Bureau of Prisons (BoP) has closed several prisons and camps across Wisconsin, Minnesota, Colorado, Pennsylvania, West Virginia, and Florida. The incarcerated individuals and employees from these locations have been relocated.

According to the BoP, these closures are attributed to staffing shortages, aging infrastructure, and limited budgetary resources.

The BoP also noted problems keeping staff in Dublin. This is due to high living costs and competition from other law enforcement agencies. However, the announcement did not address recent sexual abuse allegations linked to the facility.

FCI Dublin Permanently Closed Following Abuse Convictions

The closure of FCI Dublin is an essential step in tackling abuse in federal prisons. However, this change did not happen quickly.

The scandal first came to light through brave testimonies from survivors who dared to speak out against their abusers despite immense risks.

Their bravery led to investigations that found terrible patterns of assault by prison officials over many years. The allegations of prisoner abuse included coercion, manipulation, and sexual assault by people in power.

These revelations catalyzed public outrage and prompted federal action, leading to today’s outcome.

If you suffered prison sexual assault by a guard, contact one of our assault injury lawyers. As prisoner rights advocates, we will file a lawsuit for your physical injuries, any sexual contact, and pain and suffering.

The prevalence of sexual abuse in prisons remains alarmingly high

Protecting Prisoners’ Rights After Sexual Assault in Prison

Across the country, similar cases have been reported. These cases highlight a common problem in the prison system. Power dynamics often work against inmates, especially women.

The culture at FCI Dublin was based on fear and silence. Its closure is a warning for other institutions. It is also an opportunity for them to rethink their practices and protections against abuse.

With judicial supervision, efforts were made to move hundreds of female prisoners to different facilities safely.

Legal Support for Those Impacted by Sexual Violence in Prison

The prison system is intended to be a place for rehabilitation and correction. For many incarcerated individuals, it becomes a site of unimaginable trauma.

One of the worst violations that inmates face is sexual abuse. This abuse often comes from guards and prison staff, who are supposed to care for them.

This violation takes away their dignity and destroys any sense of safety they may have in prison.

These abuses must be exposed, offenders held accountable, and survivors supported through legal avenues. Staff sexual abuse must be eradicated from the person system.

If you or a loved one has suffered staff sexual abuse, you have rights and options available to seek recourse and justice.

Supporting Survivors of Prison Guard Sexual Misconduct

The prevalence of sexual abuse in prisons remains alarmingly high despite various reforms aimed at curbing this heinous crime. The power dynamics inherent in correctional institutions often create an environment where abuse can flourish unchecked.

Guards and staff wield significant authority over inmates’ daily lives—from movement to communication—making it incredibly difficult for victims to report incidents without fear of retaliation or disbelief.

The very people who should ensure security become perpetrators themselves, leaving inmates with no safe haven or trusted advocate within the walls meant to confine them.

An experienced sexual assault lawyer and prisoner advocate group can help.

Fight for Justice After Sexual Assault in Prison—Free Consultation Available

Legal recourse plays a vital role in seeking justice for survivors of sexual assault in prisons.

A successful lawsuit can lead to personal vindication and systemic change.

Legal action brings attention to institutional failures, prompting necessary reforms that benefit current and future inmates alike. If you have been sexually abused in a Baltimore, MD, correctional facility, we will advocate for you.

The Yost Legal Group provides essential help. We offer free consultations and work hard for those treated unfairly by the prison and jail system. Call an inmate advocacy attorney at 1-800-967-8529 for a free consultation.

We will discuss your rights and seek the justice and financial recovery you deserve.

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Nearly 6,000 People Killed in Truck Accidents Annually

National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Sees Rise in Accidents, Fatalities

In their Spring 2024 report, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) revealed that accidents involving large trucks saw a rise in fatalities and injuries in 2022 compared to the previous year. When seriously injured in an accident caused by a commercial vehicle, make sure you hire an experienced truck accident lawyer.

With almost 3 million semi-trucks registered in the United States, more operators are on the road than ever. This increase has led to more injuries and deaths caused by tractor trailer accidents.

Dealing with a regular car accident involving a standard passenger vehicle is already challenging for the not-at-fault driver. You may have severe injuries that require medical treatment. You have insurance to deal with and lost time from work. There is a lot to manage.

Now, picture the at-fault driver in an accident with a large commercial vehicle weighing 10,000 and 80,000 pounds. Even if you’re in a pickup truck, it’s lucky if you only face minor physical, medical, and financial effects.

Truck drivers have large trucking companies behind them. This includes a team of lawyers and insurance professionals.

6000 deaths annually in truck accident crashes

Contact Experienced Truck Accident Attorneys Now

After a semi-truck or tractor-trailer accident, it is vital to contact a law firm. Look for lawyers who have experience with truck accidents. Not all personal injury lawyers are the same. Not all accident and injury attorneys can maximize a truck accident insurance claim.

If you are injured in a truck accident, call the personal injury lawyers at The Yost Legal Group. Our personal injury attorneys will listen to what happened and immediately investigate your case.

When seriously injured in a car accident with a large truck, and the accident was not your fault, do not delay. The Yost Legal Group is available via call or text at 410-659-6800. All consultations are free.

Hire experienced truck crash lawyers.

When injured in an accident due to tractor trailer error call The Yost Legal Group

National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Study and Findings

In “Traffic Safety Facts Research Note: Overview of Motor Vehicle Traffic Crashes in 2022,” the NHTSA found a decrease in most motor vehicle accidents involving passenger cars: “The estimated number of police-reported traffic crashes decreased from 6.10 million in 2021 to 5.93 million in 2022, a 2.8% decrease.”

As a result of the decrease in the total number of accidents, injuries and fatalities also fell across the board when accidents involved standard passenger vehicles.

However, when large trucks were involved, fatalities increased by 2.0% in 2022, a statistic that did not go unnoticed by Truck Safety Coalition (TSC) Board President Tami Friedrich, who called the data “unacceptable.”

According to the NHTSA’s report, 5,936 people lost their lives in accidents with medium- and heavy-duty trucks.

Friedrich continued, “I call on Secretary Buttigieg to take action and urgently proceed with rulemaking to require the use of speed limiters and automatic emergency braking in large trucks as soon as possible.”

The Truck Safety Coalition was even more worried by the fact that 5,936 people died in large-truck crashes in 2022. This number shows a 75% increase in truck crash deaths since 2009.

Fatalities may be the most extreme outcome of a large truck accident, but they are not the only adverse effects. As noted, injuries from large truck accidents rose by 3.7% in 2022, from 154,813 to 160,608 reported injuries.

 

Non-fatal injuries when in a big-truck accident

Tractor trailer accidents happen more often than we realize. They are also much more dangerous than regular car crashes.

Tractor trailers dwarf regular passenger vehicles in both size and weight. A fully loaded tractor trailer can weigh up to 80,000 pounds, compared to an average passenger car’s around 3,000 pounds.

This disparity means that in a collision, the forces involved are significantly greater when a truck is involved.

The massive momentum carried by these trucks can result in devastating damage upon impact, often leading to severe injuries or fatalities for those in smaller vehicles.

This stark reality highlights the importance of increased vigilance and caution when driving near these giants. Due to their size, weight, and limited maneuverability, tractor trailers can cause severe damage.

TBI accidents caused by truck accidents

One of the most common injuries sustained in these types of accidents is traumatic brain injury (TBI).

TBIs occur when a powerful force jolts or strikes the head during impact, potentially leading to long-term cognitive impairments or even death.

Victims suffering from TBIs may face months or years of rehabilitation with uncertain outcomes.

Spinal cord injuries from big truck accidents

Another prevalent injury resulting from truck accident collisions is spinal cord damage. A sudden blow or trauma can dislocate vertebrae or compress nerve pathways within the spinal column.

This type of injury can lead to partial or complete paralysis, significantly altering an individual’s quality of life both personally and professionally.

The recovery process is often lengthy and costly, requiring extensive medical treatment and therapy sessions.

In truck-related accidents, people commonly report broken bones and fractures along with brain and spinal injuries.

Due to their strong impact, it’s common for victims to suffer fractures in different body parts. These include arms, legs, ribs, and pelvises.

Such injuries usually necessitate surgical intervention followed by a prolonged period of immobilization as well as physical therapy.

Internal injuries from truck accidents

Internal injuries represent another serious concern when involved in a crash with a large truck. These types of injuries can include damage to organs such as:

  • lungs (from rib punctures)
  • liver lacerations from seatbelt pressure during high-speed impacts
  • kidney ruptures due to blunt force trauma against seats/steering wheels

These all require immediate medical attention, without which they could prove fatal.

Last but crucially important are psychological impacts stemming from involvement in a big truck crash. Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a severe consequence where survivors relive horrific experiences through flashbacks and nightmares.

This affects daily functioning capabilities unless addressed therapeutically over time under professional guidance.

Severe, non-fatal injuries as a result of a truck accident include, but are not limited to:

  • Traumatic brain injury (TBI)
  • Spinal cord injury
  • Paraplegia injury
  • Fractures and broken bones
  • Internal injuries
  • PTSD

Many of these types of injuries will not heal with time. They cannot be cured with modern medicine. These are the kinds of significant injuries that can lead to long-term disabilities, requiring a lifetime of care.

They are emotionally, mentally, and financially draining.

Tractor trailer accident on I695 outside of Baltimore

Why are there so many accidents with semi trucks?

Difficulty maneuvering a semi truck on the road

One critical factor contributing to the danger posed by tractor trailers is their limited maneuverability. Due to their length and structure, these vehicles require much more space and time to come to a complete stop or execute evasive maneuvers like swerving or changing lanes quickly.

In emergency situations where sudden stops are necessary—whether due to traffic jams or unforeseen obstacles—a truck’s inability to halt abruptly can lead directly to catastrophic pile-ups involving multiple vehicles.

Numerous blind spots when driving a big truck

Numerous blind spots surround large trucks—areas known colloquially as “No Zones.” These blind spots exist on all four sides of a truck but are particularly pronounced on its right side and directly behind it.

Cars lingering in these zones risk going unnoticed by truck drivers who might inadvertently change lanes or make turns without realizing another vehicle’s proximity.

Avoiding prolonged periods within these blind spots significantly reduces accident risk.

Weather conditions play a major role in causing serious accidents.

Weather conditions further compound the dangers associated with large trucks on roads. Rainy weather makes it harder for all vehicles to stop. This effect is even more significant for tractor trailers.

They are heavier, which means they need more time to brake. This is true even in normal conditions. In bad weather, like rain or snow, the risk increases.

If not driven carefully, these trucks can skid off the road. Experienced drivers are needed to handle these challenges safely. This helps keep everyone on the road safe too!

Driver fatigue causes many semi-truck crashes

Lastly—and perhaps most alarmingly—is driver fatigue. Long-haul operators can spend countless hours traversing miles of road daily.

They become susceptible to:

  • exhaustion-induced errors
  • slower reaction times
  • impaired judgment from drinking and driving

Navigate Complex Claims with Experienced Accident Lawyers

Receiving maximum compensation after a motor vehicle accident can take a long time and be challenging. Hiring the best personal injury lawyer for the job is critical.

A top personal injury law attorney will work with insurance adjusters, handle the entire claims process, and work on a contingency fee basis. All truck accident claims and car accident claims are handled by our top-rated injury accident attorneys.

We will explain the process of building your case and filing a claim as we fight to seek the best result. Truck accident cases are more complex than regular car accident cases. They require a knowledgeable legal team to recover the compensation you deserve.

Our experienced truck accident lawyers understand the law and will immediately start investigating your accident claim.

An experienced tractor-trailer accident lawyer can calculate the extent of your damages, such as medical expenses, pain and suffering, lost wages, and future medical needs.

If you or a loved one has been injured in an accident with a big truck, semi-truck, or tractor trailer, there is no time to delay. Contact an experienced truck accident lawyer.

The Yost Legal Group will fight to get you the justice and compensation you deserve. Call 410-659-6800 today for a free consultation.

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Optetrak Patella Implant Device Exactech Recall

A letter was recently sent to surgeons, hospitals, and healthcare professionals announcing the voluntary recall of the Exactech Optetrak Patella implant device.

The voluntary Exactech recall concerns Patella lots that were packaged without the ethylene vinyl alcohol (EVOH) layer. Experts advised doctors not to implant these potentially harmful devices packaged in faulty packaging.

Medical professionals were advised to stop using the product immediately and set aside any that might be affected. They were instructed that healthcare professionals should report any adverse reactions or noticeable quality issues as patients come forward.

Our attorneys handle Exactech recall lawsuits nationwide. If you’ve experienced failure of an Exactech knee, hip, or ankle implant that was recalled, leading to revision surgery, we’re here to help.

Stay informed with the latest updates and insights on this page.

Don’t overlook your rights—contact our product liability lawyers at 800-967-8529 or online. You won’t incur any fees unless you receive financial compensation.

Exactech Optetrak Patella recalled medical device

Exachtech Addresses Oxidation Risk with Packaging Recall

From 2004 to August 2021, Exachtech used two types of packaging materials in its process: (1) Low-Density Polyethylene (LDPE), Nylon, and EVOH, or (2) LDPE and Nylon without EVOH.

EVOH improves the prevention of oxygen permeation. Thousands of devices were packaged without using an EVOH oxygen barrier layer, which potentially causes unintended oxidation and early degradation of the affected device.

Given the potential for oxidation-related issues, Exachtech voluntarily recalled these lots as a precautionary measure.

The recall emphasizes the importance of surgeons regularly monitoring patients with affected devices for signs of wear and failure. The crucial issue is determining how many thousands of patients might suffer from device-related pain or failure, potentially needing revision surgery.

knee replacement recall lawsuit by The Yost Legal Group

Stay Informed on Patella Device Recall and Risks

The lot-specific voluntary recall relates to Patella devices manufactured from 2004 through August 2021. These devices were marketed as Optetrak and cleared through 510(k): K932690, K933610, and K160484.

All healthcare professionals were instructed to review the following information and take any necessary actions. Then, the information advised diagnostic considerations, such as performing X-rays to evaluate the patient further if device failure is suspected.

Potential issues due to oxidation include:

–             Accelerated device wear or failure

–             Component cracking or fracture

–             New or worsening pain

–             Bone loss

–             Swelling in the affected area

Key Information on Optetrak Device Failures

The recall names all of these knee replacement devices, which could necessitate revision surgery for patients.

Part Number Device Description                                                         Device Identifier

200-02-26        THREE PEG PATELLA 26MM                                    10885862039576

200-02-29        THREE PEG PATELLA 29MM                                    10885862039583

200-02-32        THREE PEG PATELLA 32MM                                    10885862039590

200-02-35        THREE PEG PATELLA 35MM                                    10885862039606

200-02-38        THREE PEG PATELLA 38MM                                    10885862039613

200-02-41        THREE PEG PATELLA 41MM                                      10885862039620

200-03-26        ONE PEG PATELLA 26MM                                         10885862039637

200-03-29        ONE PEG PATELLA 29MM                                         10885862039644

200-03-32        ONE PEG PATELLA 32MM                                         10885862039651

200-03-35        ONE PEG PATELLA 35MM                                         10885862039668

200-03-38        ONE PEG PATELLA 38MM                                         10885862039675

200-03-41        ONE PEG PATELLA 41MM                                          10885862039682

200-05-23        INSET PATELLA 23MM                                              10885862039835

200-05-26        INSET PATELLA 26MM                                               10885862039842

200-05-29        INSET PATELLA 29MM                                               10885862039859

200-07-26        ADVANCED PATELLA 26MM 3 PEG IMPLANT  10885862314260

200-07-29        ADVANCED PATELLA 29M 3 PEG IMPLANT      10885862314277

200-07-32        ADVANCED PATELLA 32MM 3 PEG IMPLANT  10885862314284

200-07-35        ADVANCED PATELLA 35MM 3 PEG IMPLANT  10885862314291

200-07-38        ADVANCED PATELLA 38MM 3 PEG IMPLANT  10885862314307

Exactech lawsuits by The Yost Legal Group

The Hidden Dangers of 510(k) Fast-Track FDA Approvals

Between 1994 and 2017, Exactech secured multiple 501(k) clearances from the FDA for its Optetrak, Optetrak Logic, and Truliant total knee replacement implant systems and components.

The FDA’s 510(k) clearance, known as “fast-track” approval, does not require manufacturers to prove a product’s safety and effectiveness.

This process, known as “premarket notification” or 510(k) clearance, only requires the manufacturer to demonstrate that the device is substantially equivalent to a pre-MDA predicate device.

Consequentially, the FDA can “clear” a new device for sale in the USA. Under the 510(k) process, the component parts used in the Exactech Optetrak Devices were either approved by the FDA or marketed without receiving either 510(k) clearance or full approval by the FDA.

Simply put, not enough product development and testing was done to ensure product safety. This can lead to patient harm and potential recalls, which is precisely what has happened.

Protect Your Rights Against Defective Medical Products

At Yost Legal Group, our priority is ensuring patient safety and achieving effective outcomes for patients with life-altering defective medical products. Our knee replacement lawsuit attorneys will help you file a lawsuit to seek compensation.

Collaborative efforts are essential for the success of actions against medical device manufacturers—especially those who continuously market harmful products.

Our law firm is dedicated to defending the rights of individuals against powerful corporations. Accordingly, when huge medical device manufacturers like Exactech continue to put profits before people, we step in to level the playing field.

Learn about your legal rights. We can file a product liability case on your behalf if you have a defective medical device. The Yost Legal Group is filing the current personal injury lawsuits:

  • Knee replacement recall
  • Shoulder replacement recall
  • Hip replacement recall
  • Exactech lawsuits

Empowering Patients, Challenging Corporations

If you or a loved one had knee replacement surgery in the past ten years and are experiencing pain, a clicking noise, swelling, or any other medical concerns, contact your doctor immediately.

Contact The Yost Legal Group for a free and confidential consultation at 1-800-967-8529. Our personal injury law firm is committed to promptly and transparently addressing potential concerns. If you had knee replacement surgery and are affected by the Exactech knee recall, please contact us.

Hold Exactech accountable for the harm they’ve caused. Our legal team is committed to seeking justice and ensuring they change their ways. A product defect lawyer will file an Exacteck lawsuit on your behalf.

For more information or to discuss your case, call us at 1-800-967-8529 or click this link to request an appointment.

By pursuing an Exactech knee replacement lawsuit, you will help send a powerful message for change. You may qualify for a significant financial recovery.

At The Yost Legal Group, you never have to pay anything upfront. We only get paid after we settle your case. If there is no recovery, no legal fees or expenses are due. Our personal injury law attorneys will provide legal representation with a free case evaluation.

_____________________________________________________________

Consumers are encouraged to report any adverse events or quality concerns related to this recall to the FDA through the MedWatch reporting system. You can go online at the FDA Medwatch Website or call 1-800-FDA-0178.

Necrotizing Enterocolitis Linked to Enfamil and Similac Infant Formula

Studies show Necrotizing Enterocolitis afflicts premature babies who are fed “cow’s milk-based formula” like Enfamil and Similac. In most cases, baby or infant formula is a safe alternative to breastmilk for newborn babies as long as standard guidelines and feeding practices are used.

The United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) website hosts a comprehensive report on infant formulas that includes approved manufacturers and individual products. It also highlights the best practices for feeding formula to a baby.

However, one major issue, specifically regarding cow’s milk baby formula, is when a baby is born prematurely. Do not use cow’s milk baby formula to feed your preemie due to the risk of developing NEC.

Cow's milk baby formula fed to your preemie may lead to developing NEC

Why Premature Infants Should Avoid Cow’s Milk Formula

According to most modern studies and evidence, premature babies should not be fed cow’s milk baby formula. Furthermore, a 2020 study by the National Institute of Health’s (NIH) National Library of Medicine found that even milk-based fortifiers in conjunction with a base breastmilk diet negatively impacted premature infants’ health.

The consensus and evidence regarding the use of cow’s milk baby formula on premature babies are pretty clear. It often results in the development of necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC), a severe and potentially deadly condition.

If your premature baby was diagnosed with necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC), you may have a case if your baby was fed a cow’s milk formula. The experienced birth injury lawyers at The Yost Legal Group are here to help you and hold the manufacturers accountable for their negligence.

Necrotizing Enterocolitis Afflicts Premature Babies Fed Cow’s Milk Formula from Enfamil and Similac

What are premature birth risks, and how can They be identified?

People frequently talk about human pregnancy in terms of months and say that it lasts about nine months. However, doctors and other medical professionals talk about human pregnancies in terms of weeks.

The average length of a full-term human pregnancy is 40 weeks, which is a little longer than just “nine months.” However, as long as the pregnancy lasts at least 37 weeks, it is still considered a “full-term pregnancy.”

Anything under 37 weeks is considered a “premature birth,” i.e., the baby is born too early. However, not all premature births are the same. The earlier the birth, the greater the health risk to the baby, outcomes that can be long-term, lifelong, or even fatal.

According to the Mayo Clinic, a newborn can be:

  • Late Preterm: born between 34 and 36 completed weeks of pregnancy
  • Moderately Preterm: born between 32 and 34 weeks of pregnancy
  • Very Preterm: born between 28 and 32 weeks of pregnancy
  • Extremely Preterm: born before 28 weeks of pregnancy

The Mayo Clinic does note, however, that “most premature births happen in the late-preterm stage.” The Cleveland Clinic states that about 10% of births in the United States are premature.

What are the Health Risks Associated with Premature Birth?

As mentioned, the earlier the birth in terms of the number of weeks completed, the higher the risk of health issues for the newborn. It is entirely possible that a late-preterm newborn is as healthy as any baby born after 37 weeks of gestation.

If health factors are present, symptoms can range from mild to serious. However, it is always advised to follow professional medical advice after premature birth, even if symptoms are not readily apparent or seem mild.

Symptoms of premature birth include, but are not limited to, the following:

  • Small-sized/underweight baby
  • Smaller/less-developed brain
  • Problems breathing
  • Problems feeding
  • Low body temperature
  • Newborn jaundice

Cow's milk based infant formula leads to Necrotizing Enterocolitis

What is Necrotizing Enterocolitis (NEC)?

In a 2023 study, the National Library of Medicine (NLM) stated that “infant necrotizing enterocolitis is caused by bacterial invasion into the intestinal wall.”

When a baby is born prematurely, they have not had the full gestational period to develop safely in the womb.

Though the exact mechanism that causes the bacterial invasion that leads to NEC in premature babies has not yet been determined, the 2023 NLM study found that “gastrointestinal tract immaturity [in premature neonates] is believed to play a role in the pathogenesis of necrotizing enterocolitis.”

An NEC preemie with NEC symptoms is frightening to new parents.

Additional studies, even ones dating back to 2011, have shown a link between premature babies fed with cow’s milk formula and the development of NEC.

Although it is possible for babies who are exclusively fed breast milk to develop neonatal necrotizing enterocolitis, the incident rate is much lower.

The Cleveland Clinic also supports this data with its findings that NEC affects 1 in 1,000 premature babies. In comparison, “the condition only rarely affects full-term infants,” about 1 in 10,000 full-term babies.

While it is possible to diagnose NEC disease clinically, doctors often require diagnostic imaging to determine the condition’s stage. Radiography is the most commonly used tool because it can show the intestines and areas affected by rogue bacteria.

There are three Bell’s stages of NEC:

  • Bell’s stage 1 (suspected disease)
  • Bell’s stage 2 (definite disease)
  • Bell’s stage 3 (advanced disease)

What are the Health Risks Associated with Necrotizing Enterocolitis?

NEC in preterm infants is a severe condition that affects the gastrointestinal tracts of premature babies, leading to bacterial infections of the intestinal wall.

If diagnosed and treated immediately, the effects of NEC preemie symptoms can be minimized. However, doctors can miss symptoms, leading to untreated NEC.

When untreated, bacteria that enter the gastrointestinal tract can cause severe infections that kill the intestinal tissue and cause bacterial leakage to other internal organs. Bell’s stage 3 means the presence of dead tissue or bowel perforations.

In the United States alone, NEC caused 355 deaths per 100,000 live births in 2013, and the mortality rate for Black Americans was three times higher than for the White population.

Symptoms of NEC include, but are not limited to, the following: (signs of necrotizing enterocolitis)

  • Abdominal swelling
  • Bloody stools
  • Green vomit
  • Poor feeding
  • Inability to gain weight
  • Organ failure
  • Death

If your baby was born premature and diagnosed with necrotizing enterocolitis after it was fed cow’s milk baby formula, there is no time to delay. Learn about filing an NEC lawsuit and get NEC lawsuit updates.

Call or text our experienced product liability lawyers today for a free consultation regarding your potential case. We must hold these companies accountable for their negligence and dangerous products. We are available at no cost to you at 410-659-6800.

Do you Qualify to File a Necrotizing Enterocolitis Lawsuit?

At The Yost Legal Group, we understand the sensitivity of this subject. We are talking about children’s health, life, and wellbeing—and not just any children, but your children or grandchildren.

For years, we have pursued claims against Abbott Laboratories and Mead Johnson related to this NEC litigation, and the fight is just getting started.

It is time to hold these multinational, billion-dollar companies accountable for their negligence in developing and marketing dangerous products.

These products are being fed to newborn and premature babies and, in some instances, causing grave harm, if not death.

If NEC is not caught and treated in time, the damage done to the premature baby might never be fully healed. It could require a lifetime of care. And those affected deserve compensation.

Contact The Yost Legal Group, a wrongful death law firm.

Already, we are seeing cases go to court and settlements being reached. The manufacturers of cow’s milk formula fed to premature infants, leading to NEC, must be held accountable. The Yost Legal Group will continue to fight.

Call or text our experienced defective product lawyers today for a free consultation. We will discuss filing an NEC baby formula lawsuit or a Similac infant formula lawsuit, which will allow us to hold the manufacturers of these dangerous products accountable.

We will help you recover financial compensation for medical treatments, pain and suffering, and whatever your NEC newborn requires.

Contact a baby formula lawyer at 410-659-6800. There is no charge or fee unless you recover. We are here to help you get the justice you deserve.

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