Are fungi a threat to society? Should we be worried about fungi? Fungi do pose a threat to society as fungal diseases can have negative impacts on human health and the economy. The economic burden of fungal diseases in the United States alone was estimated to be around $7.2 billion in 2017, with healthcare costs being a significant contributor. Fungal diseases can also have a negative impact on food safety, as they can lead to food spoilage and potential foodborne illnesses. Additionally, fungal diseases can cause plant leaf fungal disease, which can reduce crop production and lead to food insecurity. However, it is important to note that not all fungi have negative impacts. Many fungi have positive benefits, such as their use in food production, medicine, and bioremediation.