Antibiotics, the miracle drug that saves countless lives, are in serious jeopardy. The vast majority of antibiotics – 70% according to the FDA – are administered to livestock and poultry—mostly in factory farms. The CAFO industry depends on low-dose usage of antibiotics to prevent disease in closely confined livestock, but this practice is generating antibiotic resistant bacteria, contributing to a growing public health threat.

Dr. Lance Price, a renowned microbiologist working on the forefront of this critical issue, speaks on the factory farm/superbug connection and what we need to do to protect these precious drugs during this year’s JFAN Annual Meeting.

Researchers have strongly believed that factory farms were generating antibiotic resistant bacteria, but a direct link is difficult to prove. A groundbreaking study co-authored by Dr. Price confirmed the link between livestock associated MRSA (Methicillin Resistant Staphylococcus Aureus) and industrial pork production. Dr. Price will share how resistance occurs, how CAFOs contribute to the problem, and what must be done to protect lifesaving antibiotics. 

Dr. Price is a Professor in the Environmental and Occupational Health Department at The George Washington University Milken Institute of Public Health. He is the Founder and Director of the Antibiotic Resistance Action Center, through which Price engages with nongovernment organizations and policy makers to develop science-based policies to reduce antibiotic use in people and in livestock production. His research has been published in top peer-reviewed journals and covered in media outlets around the world.