27 The Trusted Source for Canada’s Pork Producers Better Pork | October 2024 measures, AMR is projected to cause nearly 10 million deaths per year by 2050, surpassing cancer as a leading cause of death. AMR is a concern for livestock producers Recent Canadian modelling estimates predict that AMR could reduce animal farming productivity by up to 10 per cent by 2050 due to the spread of infectious diseases and increased animal deaths (Council of Canadian Academies, 2019). This is a major concern for producers worldwide, as antimicrobials are essential tools for maintaining the health and productivity of farm animals. Currently, the livestock sector accounts for about 70 per cent of global antimicrobial sales. Use of antimicrobials in Canada The Canadian Integrated Program for Antimicrobial Resistance Surveillance (CIPARS) reported that in 2022, most antimicrobials sold were intended for use in pigs (~539,000 kg), cattle (~311,000 kg), and poultry (~99,000 kg), showing only a slight decrease of 2.4 per cent compared to 2021. While the extensive use of antimicrobials seems necessary for maintaining animal health and farm productivity, it can turn animals and their products into massive reservoirs of AMR and resistant microbes, threatening both public health and global food security in the long run. The Pan-Canadian Action Plan on Antimicrobial Resistance highlights the need for infection prevention and control, while also emphasizing development of robust surveillance systems, enhanced research and innovation, stewardship programs, and strong leadership to tackle the AMR crisis. AMR on the farm and in the environment Major risks associated with antimicrobial use on farms include the emergence of drug-resistant pathogens, such as E. coli and Salmonella, which can be directly transmitted to farm staff. Additionally, the release of antimicrobial residues into the environment fosters the selection of AMR in clinically relevant pathogens, affecting both humans and animals. Indeed, a significant portion of the antibiotics administered to animals is excreted in urine and feces in active forms, making animal manure a key reservoir of residual antibiotics. Additionally, other antimicrobials used in farm environments, including those in footbath solutions like copper sulfate, are often washed into manure pits, further contributing to the AMR reservoir in these environments. This, combined with the high number of microbial cells present in manure, poses a significant problem because manure is commonly used as a crop fertilizer. This practice increases the risk of spreading AMR and drug-resistant microbes into the broader enviSWINE RESEARCH For more information or to contact your local sales representative, scan the QR code or call us toll-free 1-833-578-2740. hypor.com HIGH QUALITY PIGLETS EFFICIENT AND UNIFORM FINISHERS MORE QUALITY MEAT Hypor Magnus
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