About 5,000 disabled children were born in Germany between 1959 and 1962 due to the effects of the sedative Contergan, with half not surviving.
Synopsis
About 5,000 disabled children were born in Germany between 1959 and 1962 due to the effects of the sedative Contergan, with half not surviving.
People
View all →Synopsis
Helga Tosana and other parents recount their experiences in Germany during the late 1950s and early 1960s, a time marked by the birth of approximately 5,000 children with disabilities linked to the sedative Contergan. The active ingredient thalidomide disrupted fetal development, leading to severe physical impairments and internal organ damage. Many of these children did not survive. The documentary captures the emotional toll on families as they navigate the aftermath of this medical scandal.
Deep Dive
Why Watch
- Meet parents sharing their Contergan stories.
- Find out how thalidomide caused widespread disabilities.
- See the lasting impact of a major medical scandal.
Did You Know
- About 5000 disabled children were born in Germany due to Contergan.
- Approximately half of the affected children did not survive.
- Thalidomide disrupted fetal growth in the early stages of pregnancy.
Perfect For
Frequently Asked Questions
How many disabled children were born in Germany due to Contergan?
About 5000 disabled children were born in Germany as a result of Contergan.
What was the active ingredient in Contergan that caused disabilities?
The active ingredient in Contergan that caused disabilities was thalidomide.
What percentage of the affected children did not survive?
About half of the affected children did not survive.
What are people saying?
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