Who is at the highest risk for iron-deficiency anemia?

The option indicating a 3-year-old female with multiple food allergies represents a group that may be at a higher risk for iron-deficiency anemia. Young children are particularly vulnerable due to their high growth demands, which increase the need for iron. Additionally, if a child has multiple food allergies, their diet may be restricted, leading to potential deficiencies in key nutrients, including iron. Without balanced nutritional intake, the risk of developing anemia rises.

In general, children need sufficient iron for proper growth and development, and if allergies limit their access to iron-rich foods such as meats, beans, and fortified cereals, it can lead to an inadequate iron status. Therefore, this context highlights why the child in this scenario might be at elevated risk compared to the other individuals mentioned, who have regular dietary access, are older, and may have lesser iron demands relative to their circumstances.