What age group is most vulnerable to foreign body aspiration?

The age group most vulnerable to foreign body aspiration is children under 3 years old. This vulnerability arises primarily because young children tend to explore their environment orally, often putting objects in their mouths. They have a smaller airway, and their developing motor skills make them more prone to accidents, including inhaling foreign objects.

While children under the age of 5 can also be at risk, the peak incidence of foreign body aspiration occurs in children aged 1 to 3 years. This age range correlates with developmental stages where children are learning to manipulate and discover items but may lack the understanding of potential dangers.

As children grow older, particularly those in the age range of 6 to 8 years, they typically have better motor control and awareness of risks, thus reducing the incidence of foreign body aspiration. Adolescents aged 12 to 14 are even less likely to experience such incidents as they have matured significantly in both physical and cognitive development. Therefore, the correct choice highlights the specific age group where the risk is maximized due to their behavior and physical development.