 Why does livestock research matter? 61% of all human diseases are transmitted from animals. Many other diseases such as HIV AIDS, measles and smallpox jumped species from animals to humans many years ago. One new disease emerges every four months. 75% of these originate from animals. But wait! Domestic animals provide food high in micronutrients, high in protein and fiber. They also provide fuels and raw materials for more than 800 million poor people in the world. Research is urgently needed to maximize the health benefits and minimize the health risks of animal agriculture.