Yakima, Benton and Franklin counties are experiencing instances of anencephaly at a rate five-times higher than the national average. Anencephaly is a rare birth defect that prevents parts of the brain and skull from developing in utero. This fatal birth defect has been increasingly affecting Central Washington for at least three years, but State Investigators are only now looking into its cause and potential prevention strategies.
The CDC reports that genes, environmental factors, and parental behaviors may all be causes of anencephaly. However, its exact cause is not currently known. With the rate of cases reported in Central Washington, evidence may suggest environmental factors play a significant role in this fatal birth defect. However, it is too early to determine with any sort of certitude what may be behind this tragedy.
Unlike anencephaly, the causes behind many birth injuries and defects are well known – and when these causes are beyond the control of the mother, families may be entitled to seek compensation through legal action. The best way to determine if you have cause to file suit is thorough a one-on-one consultation with experienced Seattle birth injury attorney Stephen Hornbuckle.
If you are in need of a birth injury attorney, please contact the Hornbuckle Firm today. We serve Seattle, Bellevue, Tacoma, and surrounding areas.
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