26/10/2025
π« A tragic reminder of how fast a blocked airway can turn fatal.
This preserved specimen shows the lungs and trachea of a 3-year-old who died after choking β the circled object (from a peanut) completely blocked the airway at the carina, the point where the windpipe splits into the left and right bronchi.
π In children under 4, food-related choking is one of the leading causes of preventable death.
Small foods β like nuts, grapes, hot dogs, or even tiny toys β can seal the airway perfectly, leaving no path for air to pass.
β οΈ Parents and caregivers, please remember:
β’ Cut food into very small, bite-sized pieces.
β’ Avoid giving nuts, popcorn, or hard candy to toddlers.
β’ Learn how to perform back blows and the Heimlich maneuver.
β±οΈ Seconds matter. Awareness saves lives. β€οΈ