Birth Injuries Linked To Autism
A recent study into the causes of autism failed to determine just one cause for the condition but instead identified 16 different factors that contribute to an increased risk of future autism. According to the article published in Pediatrics, “Although there is insufficient evidence to implicate any one perinatal or neonatal factors…[there is] some evidence to suggest that exposure to multiple neonatal complications may increase autism risk.”
Among the factors identified as increasing risk include fetal distress, umbilical cord complications, birth injury, or trauma. Generally, birth injuries occur when the blood flow is compromised during labor and delivery. Doctors and nurses need to take immediate action to increase the oxygen supply to the baby. Lifelong injuries – including erb’s palsy, cerebral palsy and possibly autism - can occur if the supply is not immediately restored.
The failure to take immediate action and act according to the appropriate standard of care may constitute medical malpractice, and the doctors, nurse and hospital staff responsible may be required paying damages – including the cost of a child’s treatment for the rest of their life.
The study linking birth injuries and trauma to autism is another example of the significant harm that may occur to victims of medical malpractice during the delivery process.
For more information, or if you suspect your child has suffered a birth trauma, please contact the dedicated Hawaii birth injury lawyers at Bostwick & Peterson, LLP for a confidential consultation.
