Despite concerns over antimicrobial resistance, global antimicrobial use in animals could increase by 2030

The use of antimicrobials in animal farming has allowed for intensive animal production to meet the growing demand for animal protein. However, the widespread use of these drugs has led to antimicrobial resistance, posing a threat to animal and potentially human health. Monitoring of antimicrobial use in farming is necessary to track progress in reducing reliance on these drugs and to identify countries where antimicrobial-stewardship efforts should be targeted.

A study was conducted to estimate the global usage of veterinary antimicrobials in 2020 and 2030, using data from 42 countries. Statistical analyses were employed, along with projections of animal counts for cattle, sheep, chicken, and pigs from the Food and Agriculture Organisation. Maps of animal densities were used to identify areas where antimicrobial use was particularly high.

The estimates revealed that global antimicrobial usage in animal farming was 99,502 tonnes in 2020, with a projected increase of 8% to 107,472 tonnes by 2030 based on current trends. The majority of hotspots for antimicrobial use were located in Asia (67%), with less than 1% in Africa.

The findings also suggest a higher global antimicrobial usage in 2030 compared to prior projections that used data from 2017, which is likely due to an upward revision of antimicrobial use in Asia/Oceania and the Americas. It is important to encourage national-level reporting of antimicrobial use to better evaluate the impact of national policies on usage levels.

In conclusion, the study highlights the need for continued monitoring of antimicrobial use in animal farming and targeted efforts to reduce reliance on these drugs. The identified hotspots for antimicrobial use can serve as a guide for antimicrobial-stewardship efforts in specific regions. Furthermore, national-level reporting of antimicrobial use is crucial to effectively evaluate and implement policies to curb antimicrobial resistance.