Impact of plant diseases on global food and nutritional security: a strategictheme for Brazil

Plant diseases have a significant impact on global food and nutritional security, and their occurrence has the potential to destabilize economies and create political challenges, as well as affect the health and well-being of populations. Diseases impact the key components of food security (availability, access, utilization, stability), particularly in less developed regions and/or vulnerable populations. The occurrence of plant diseases is exacerbated by factors such as increased global trade, the genetic uniformity of hosts, and climate change, leading to reduced food production, higher prices, and greater dependence on agricultural inputs like pesticides. Brazil, as a major producer and exporter of food, plays a crucial role in global food security. Future prospects for mitigating the negative effects of diseases involve the ongoing pursuit of innovative solutions through investment in research and strengthening global collaboration in disease monitoring and promoting sustainable agricultural practices to tackle this complex challenge.