When it comes to childhood hazards, choking is one of the most severe. According to a recent report, an estimated 34 kids are treated each day at emergency rooms for choking-related incidents, HealthDay News reported – an alarming statistic that should influence the way parents approach children's health and wellness.
"It's a very common thing," said researcher Gary Smith, M.D., director of the Center for Injury Research and Policy at Nationwide Children's Hospital in Columbus, Ohio. "We think much more attention needs to be paid to food choking."
Smith and his team of researchers analyzed a national database covering the period of 2001 to 2009. They found that in 2001, about 10,400 U.S. children were treated for non-fatal choking emergencies, while by 2009, the average number of kids seen rose to 12,400.
The study, which was published online by the journal Pediatrics and appears in the August print edition, pinpoints specific foods like candy, meat, bones, fruits and vegetables as major culprits behind potential choking episodes for kids.
Preventing choking
So, apart from cutting foods like these out of children's diets or limiting their access to them, what are some ways that parents can keep kids safe and prevent choking?
According to Smith, certain strategies, like redesigning food labels to caution parents about the risks of choking, can be useful.
"We know that labeling is one thing we can do, but we know from experience, from other public health [efforts], labeling is not effective as a standalone," added Smith.
Additional methods that parents can take include educating themselves about choking hazards and being mindful of the types of toys they give kids. Those that are recommended for older children should not be given to youngsters, as they may put kids' health at risk.
Choking is a serious risk and a leading cause of injury and death for children, and because it can happen at any time, it's essential that parents try to be as vigilant as possible.
Some common risks for choking include food, small toys and even liquids. The Child Injury Prevention Alliance recommends that kids under 4 not be given popcorn, hot dogs, chewing gum, marshmallows, whole grapes or chunks of fruit that could become lodged in throats.
Other ways that parents can prevent emergencies is to be prepared for situations before they occur. By taking a first aid and CPR course, adults can immediately come to children's aid if they begin choking or experience a similar emergency. Making sure that youngsters don't run, walk or play with food in their mouths is one way to reduce the likelihood of choking, and cutting food into smaller bites can make it easier for kids to eat.
