How can the use of PHP form variables be optimized in order to successfully insert data into a MySQL database?

To optimize the use of PHP form variables for inserting data into a MySQL database, it is important to properly sanitize and validate the input to prevent SQL injection attacks. Additionally, using prepared statements can improve performance and security by separating SQL logic from data, reducing the risk of errors and vulnerabilities.

// Assuming form variables are submitted via POST method
$name = $_POST['name'];
$email = $_POST['email'];
$age = $_POST['age'];

// Establish a database connection
$connection = new mysqli('localhost', 'username', 'password', 'database');

// Prepare a SQL statement using prepared statements
$stmt = $connection->prepare("INSERT INTO users (name, email, age) VALUES (?, ?, ?)");
$stmt->bind_param("ssi", $name, $email, $age);

// Execute the statement
$stmt->execute();

// Close the statement and connection
$stmt->close();
$connection->close();