Bridging Pig Breeding and Human Health with CT Data

Apr 13, 2026

Topigs Norsvin has a highly detailed and efficient system for CT data collection. These data are extremely valuable for pig breeding, but it can also be useful for developing imaging diagnostics in human medicine.

Pigs and humans have relatively similar physiology. Therefore, pigs are often used as animal models in surgical training and biomedical research. Unlike humans, pigs have relatively short lifespans, so with pigs we do not face the same medical challenges, such as potential radiation damage from CT scanning.

In this article, we recount how, by sharing our knowledge and innovative solutions, Topigs Norsvin is contributing to advancements in human medicine

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Video: Season 7, Episode 1: Managing Risk and Seeing Opportunities in U.S. Pork Production

Today’s episode features three guests discussing the similarities and differences between pork production in the United States and Brazil, along with strategies for managing risk in today’s industry while recognizing and acting on opportunities. First, Dr. Anne Caroline de Lara, executive manager of live pig production at Seara Alimentos, a JBS company in Brazil, is joined by Dr. Matthew Turner, head of operations for JBS Live Pork. Together, they discuss how labor, climate and ventilation challenges vary between Brazil and the United States, while underscoring their shared commitment to raising healthy pigs. They also point to lessons producers in both countries can take from one another’s systems and on-farm experiences. Then, Brady Reicks, risk manager at Reicks View Farms, shares his perspective on risk management, drawing from his background in markets and his transition into farming. He discusses how protecting margins varies by operation and offers practical approaches producers can use to make marketing and business decisions with greater confidence rather than hesitation.

Both conversations were recorded at recent industry events focused on swine livability, including the International Conference on Pig Livability and Iowa Swine Day.