How can developers ensure they are properly handling data retrieval from a database in PHP?

Developers can ensure they are properly handling data retrieval from a database in PHP by using prepared statements with parameterized queries to prevent SQL injection attacks. This method helps sanitize user input and ensures that the database queries are secure and efficient.

// Establish a database connection
$pdo = new PDO('mysql:host=localhost;dbname=mydatabase', 'username', 'password');

// Prepare a SQL statement with parameters
$stmt = $pdo->prepare('SELECT * FROM users WHERE username = :username');

// Bind parameters and execute the query
$stmt->bindParam(':username', $username);
$stmt->execute();

// Fetch the results
$results = $stmt->fetchAll(PDO::FETCH_ASSOC);