epidemic

James Orr from Friends of the Earth said the figures revealed "an epidemic in relation to how we're treating our rivers, lakes and sea loughs".

However, US Health Secretary Robert Kennedy Jr has sharply criticised that view, describing it as "epidemic denial".

In April, Kennedy dismissed such research and arguments as “epidemic denial.”

In a statement to The Times, Ladera’s legal team underscored that her case is not just about one individual, but about a wider epidemic of digital exploitation.

Department of Health and Human Services described as a “sweeping plan” to “reverse the failed policies that fueled America’s childhood chronic disease epidemic.”