Disease prevention efforts on Welsh cattle farms are influenced by farm demographics

Abstract

Background: This research seeks to understand how the transition to a new generation of younger, more diverse farmers affects disease prevention efforts on UK farms. Methods: We apply multivariate regression analysis to analyse survey responses from 112 Welsh cattle farm operators. Results: Our results indicate that young farm operators (less than 40 years of age) receive less frequent visits from veterinarians. Further, farm operators who identify as female are less likely to screen and vaccinate against a range of diseases. Finally, both young farmers and female farm operators are less likely to achieve disease-free certification for various economically meaningful livestock diseases. Conclusion: One possible explanation for these outcomes is that female farm operators and young farmers may feel excluded from long-standing social networks in the farm animal health sector.