The National Birth Defects Prevention Network (NBDPN) designated January as National Birth Defects Prevention Month. According to its website, NBDPN is a “group of individuals involved in birth defects surveillance, research and prevention.”
Throughout January, the group has worked to spread knowledge about birth injuries, birth defects and methods we can use to prevent them. This year’s theme is “Birth Defects: Common, costly and critical.”
The site offers sobering statistics about the prevalence of birth defects, including:
- For every 33 births, one will have a birth defect
- One of every five children who die before their first birthday suffer from a birth defect
- Each year, more than 120,000 babies are born with birth defects
There are many factors that cause birth defects. A poor diet, lack of vitamins and ingesting harmful substances (alcohol, tobacco, illegal drugs) can all cause potential harm for developing babies.
Unfortunately, a mistake at the hospital can undo every positive effort the mother made to prevent birth injuries. If a physician fails to recognize the risk factors for disabilities like cerebral palsy, Erb’s palsy, shoulder dystocia and baby brain injuries, they can be held liable for their mistakes.
We urge all expecting mothers to consult the NBDPN’s site to learn more about preventing birth defects. If you took careful precautions and still gave birth to a baby with disabilities or brain damage, you may have grounds to file a birth trauma lawsuit. Our attorneys can help determine if you have a case. Call 1-800-460-0606 today to schedule a free case review.
Cappolino Dodd Krebs LLP – birth trauma lawyer
