GLOBAL – New research on antimicrobial resistance (AMR) warns that livestock losses could threaten the food security of over two billion people by 2050 if no action is taken.
Led by the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH), the study is the most comprehensive analysis of AMR’s impact on animal health, using data from 204 countries.
The findings paint a stark picture of the consequences of inaction. Without significant interventions, AMR could cause livestock production losses equivalent to the annual consumption needs of 746 million people in a moderate scenario and more than two billion people in a severe one.
Livestock sectors, particularly cattle and poultry, are expected to be hit hardest, which will have devastating effects on global food supplies.
The economic toll of AMR could also be staggering. The study estimates that global GDP could decline by up to US$950 billion by 2050 if drug resistance continues unchecked.
This loss would have a particularly acute impact on low—and middle-income countries, where farmers are likely to face rising production costs, increased medication use, and higher livestock mortality rates.
“The threat of drug-resistant infections to human health is widely recognised, but the impact of AMR on the health of animals, our environment, and our economy cannot be overlooked,” said Dr. Emmanuelle Soubeyran, Director General of WOAH. “For the first time, we have an idea of exactly what is at stake unless the global community takes urgent action now.”
The research also highlights the broader economic and healthcare consequences of AMR. By 2050, the annual cost of AMR-related healthcare could increase by US$159 billion globally, further straining already vulnerable healthcare systems.
In addition, the spread of resistant pathogens from livestock to humans could cause an additional US$5.2 trillion in global economic losses by 2050.
These combined factors pose a severe risk to global health and economic stability, especially in developing countries that rely heavily on livestock for their livelihoods and food security.
Hope in investment and innovation
Despite these grim projections, the study offers a glimmer of hope. It reveals that every US$1 invested in AMR containment efforts could yield a US$28 return by improving healthcare, developing new drugs, and promoting animal health.
For example, reducing antimicrobial use in livestock by 30% over the next five years could increase global GDP by US$120 billion by 2050.
Dr. Christopher J.L. Murray, Director of the Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation, emphasised the importance of a coordinated response: “A ‘One Health’ approach, which spans the human, plant, and animal sectors, is needed. Only global will and investment, guided by evidence, can contain this growing health threat.”
The EcoAMR series, produced in collaboration with several leading health and development organisations, underscores the need for urgent action.
The authors call for increased investment to support AMR National Action Plans, many of which lack the necessary funding for implementation.
Greater investment in new antibiotics, healthcare improvements, and sanitation and hygiene measures could prevent more than 110 million deaths by 2050.
“AMR carries a significant economic burden, but taking prudent action now will see a significant return on investment,” commented Anthony McDonnell, Policy Fellow at the Center for Global Development. “It is in high-income countries’ interests to ensure that those in poorer parts of the world have access to high-quality treatment.”
As the global community prepares for a High-Level Meeting on AMR at the UN General Assembly, the message is clear: the fight against superbugs is a battle for human health, the security of the world’s food supply, and the stability of its economies.
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