4030.0: Tuesday, October 23, 2001 - 9:00 AM

Abstract #32647

Antibiotic Use in Agriculture: Public Health Risks & Policy

David B. Wallinga, MD, MPA, Institute for Agriculture and Trade Policy, 612-870-3418, dwallinga@iatp.org

Antibiotic use in general is not monitored in the United States. By latest estimates however 70 percent of all antibiotic use in the U.S. occurs as an additive to livestock feed or water, at lower than therapeutic levels. This finding, combined with rising problems with humans infected with resistant organisms, has elevated public debate about how antibiotics are used in agriculture in the U.S. and the implications for public health. This presentation summarizes the public health concerns, and describe the current policy context in which public health agencies and non-profit organizations are trying to address the problem. Alternative approaches will be examined, using the European Union as one example.

Learning Objectives: none

Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: None
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.

The 129th Annual Meeting of APHA