Can NEC Cause Cerebral Palsy?

Necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) is a dangerous intestinal disease that mainly affects premature infants. It occurs when portions of the intestinal tissue become inflamed and start to die, which can lead to severe infection, perforation of the bowel, and potentially life-threatening complications.

Research shows that nearly half of NEC survivors experience long-term developmental problems by 20 months of age. These may include cerebral palsy (CP), as well as hearing, vision, cognitive, and motor challenges.

Premature infants fed cow’s milk-based formulas instead of breast milk face a higher risk of developing NEC. Formula can trigger inflammation in underdeveloped intestines, making premature babies especially vulnerable.

If your child has cerebral palsy due to NEC or another preventable birth injury, contact our team now. We can help you understand your options and pursue compensation if you qualify.

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What Causes NEC in Newborns?

One of the main risks for NEC is feeding premature babies cow’s milk-based formula instead of breast milk. Because their stomachs and intestines are not fully developed, preterm babies have trouble digesting formula. This can irritate their intestines and make them more likely to develop NEC.

Baby formula may increase NEC risk in premature infants through:

• Bacteria growth: Formula can disrupt healthy gut balance and allow harmful bacteria to spread.
• Digestion problems: Cow’s milk proteins are difficult for premature babies to process.
• Fragile intestines: Underdeveloped digestive systems are easily overwhelmed by formula.
• Inflammation: Baby formula can irritate the intestinal lining and trigger swelling.

For preterm babies, breast milk or donor human milk remains the safest way to reduce NEC risk.

"Most parents first hear about NEC while their baby is in the NICU, which can be an incredibly stressful time. Families don’t always connect their child’s illness to formula since it was given to them by the nurse or hospital staff instead."

— NEC Baby Formula Lawyer, with Image

Types of Baby Formula Linked to NEC

Certain cow’s milk-based formulas have been linked to an increased risk of NEC in premature infants. Families whose babies developed NEC after being fed these products have filed lawsuits against manufacturers.

Parents of premature infants who were fed these formulas and later diagnosed with NEC may qualify for compensation. Money from an Enfamil or Similac lawsuit settlement can help families provide the best care possible for their child.

Find out if you could be eligible for an NEC lawsuit settlement by calling us at (855) 220-1101 for immediate assistance.

How Does NEC Cause Cerebral Palsy?

Necrotizing enterocolitis can cause cerebral palsy when severe intestinal inflammation and injury cause reduced oxygen and blood flow to the brain.

In premature infants, the brain is especially vulnerable, and even brief periods of oxygen deprivation can damage the motor areas that control movement and coordination.

Additionally, the systemic inflammation from NEC can trigger complications like sepsis, which further increases the risk of brain injury.

NEC can cause cerebral palsy through:

• Inflammatory response: The body’s response to NEC can damage delicate brain tissue in preterm infants.
• Oxygen deprivation (hypoxia): Reduced oxygen levels from NEC complications can harm brain development and lead to hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy (HIE).
• Prematurity: Developing brains are more sensitive to injury from NEC complications.
• Sepsis and infection: Severe infections from NEC can inflame the brain and worsen neurological outcomes.

This combination of factors explains why infants who survive NEC are at higher risk for long-term motor impairments, including cerebral palsy.

Is the NEC Lawsuit Real?

Yes. Families across the country have already won over $550 million in NEC baby formula lawsuit compensation. In addition to individual verdicts and settlements, hundreds of cases are now combined in multidistrict litigation (MDL), which works like a large coordinated lawsuit against formula makers.

We can connect you with NEC baby formula lawyers who can explain if your child’s condition was linked to formula and whether you may qualify for compensation.

"A good NEC lawyer will listen to your story, answer your questions, and walk with you every step of the way. You’ve been through enough already — your legal team should make this process as easy as possible."

– Brendan Smith, NEC Baby Formula Lawyer

At Cerebral Palsy Guide, we are dedicated to helping families affected by cerebral palsy caused by medical negligence and unsafe products.

If your child developed NEC after being fed Enfamil or Similac, you may qualify for compensation to help cover medical costs, long-term care, and more.

Get a free case review now to find out if you may be eligible for compensation from an NEC lawsuit.

Written by:Cerebral Palsy Guide

Cerebral Palsy Guide was founded upon the goal of educating families about cerebral palsy, raising awareness, and providing support for children, parents, and caregivers affected by the condition. Our easy-to-use website offers simple, straightforward information that provides families with medical and legal solutions. We are devoted to helping parents and children access the tools they need to live a life full of happiness