337 – Understanding antimicrobial use and prescribing behaviours by pig veterinary surgeons and farmers – A qualitative study (Research paper – Coyne – 2014)

337 Research paper – Coyne – 2014 – Understanding antimicrobial use and prescribing behaviours by pig veterinary surgeons and farmers_ a qualitative study

In Significant Impact Groups: Prudent use AB
Species targeted: Pigs;
Age: Not stated;
Summary:
Increasing awareness of bacterial antimicrobial resistance in human beings and veterinary medicine has raised concerns over the issue of overuse of antimicrobials. Their use in food-producing animals is being challenged because of the perceived risk from the transfer of resistant pathogens from animals to human beings. This study used focus groups to explore the drivers and motivators behind antimicrobial use and prescribing by veterinary surgeons and farmers in the pig industry in the UK. Studies of two veterinary and four farmer focus groups were undertaken, each with between three and six participants, in three regions of high pig density in England. Certain themes, both within and across, the veterinary and farmer focus groups were identified. Veterinary opinion was such that ‘external pressures’, such as pressure from clients, legislation and public perception, were influenced prescribing behaviour, whereas, farmers farming systems and management to be greater drivers of antimicrobial use tendencies.

Where to find the original material: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25200432/; https://doi.org/10.1136/vr.102686
Country: UK