The Role of Plant Agricultural Practices on Development of Antimicrobial Resistant Fungi Affecting Human Health

Antifungal use in plant agriculture is a widespread practice necessary to safeguard food safety and security. While the impact of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a significant global health concern, knowledge gaps exist surrounding antifungal resistance, the connection to plant agriculture, and its implications for human health.

The National Academies Forum on Microbial Threats hosted a workshop series in June 2022 exploring the role of plant agricultural practices in AMR development and implications for human health, with a focus on plant crop production. Sessions explored the magnitude of environmentally induced/selected antifungal resistance connected to plant agriculture, agricultural practices that may contribute to AMR in human pathogens, and strategies for surveillance and mitigation.This Proceedings document summarizes workshop discussions.

Table of Contents

Front Matter 1 Introduction 2 Fungal Pathogens in Plant and Human Health 3 Fungal Diseases, Antifungal Resistance, and Human Health 4 Fungicide Resistance in Plant Protection Use 5 Role of Fungicide Use in Food Safety and Security 6 Dimensions of Fungicide Regulations, Use Management, and Risk Assessment 7 Innovations in Antimicrobial Resistance Surveillance Tools and Technologies 8 One Health Approach to Antimicrobial Resistance and Pathogen Surveillance 9 Antifungal Drug Development and Stewardship in Health Care 10 Integrated Plant Disease Management References Appendix A: Statement of Task Appendix B: Workshop Agenda