A recently published Swiss study followed almost a million Swedish children. Researchers discovered that 1,600 with brachial plexus birth injury (BPBI) also had teen mental illness more frequently than their peers.
About Brachial Plexus Birth Injury
Brachial Plexus Birth Injury (BPBI) occurs in twice in every 1,000 births. During delivery, a baby’s shoulder becomes stuck, and the head pulls away from the shoulder. Some refer to it as a “stretch injury”. However, sometimes the nerves tear, creating long-term damage. This damage can be shoulder weakness, elbow flexion or shoulder rotation issues. In some instances, the infant will need to undergo primary nerve surgery.
Study Linking BPBI and Teen Mental Illness
Plos One published a study analyzing data on more than 600,000 Swedish children. The 1,600 kids with BPBI used anti-depressants and other medications treating mental health problems more frequently than their peers. Also, researchers found this birth injury coupled with low-income increased development of mental health risks. This rate doubled in teenage girls.
BPBI is preventable and treatable. However, when a medical professional does not treat it, nerve tearing could result in permanent nerve damage. Greater care from health care providers can avoid the injuries altogether by taking great care when selecting and managing treatment options.
Costs Associated with Birth Injuries
Birth injuries are often lifelong complications that require consistent medical treatment and rehabilitation. Depending on the severity of the injuries, the financial costs associated with birth injuries can range from several thousand to over a million during the lifespan of a child with birth injuries.
For instance, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the lifetime costs associated with a child who has cerebral palsy (CP) is around $1 million. The costs associated with a child who suffers hearing loss after a birth injury typically ranges around $400,00.
It is important to remember that if your child’s birth injuries are a result of medical negligence and carelessness, the medical staff, hospital, and/or physician may be liable for damages. A complex litigation attorney can help. At The Michael Brady Lynch Firm, our lawyers have decades of experience helping injured people get justice and full compensation for injuries caused by negligence. The Michel Brady Lynch Firm regularly takes on the largest corporations in the world with a track record of proven success and results. Contact The Michael Brady Lynch Firm today, and our attorneys will review your case for free and help you protect your rights. For your complimentary consultation, call our office now.