US Israel Iran War: The ongoing Middle East crisis has triggered a global shortage of helium, raising concerns over Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) services in India. According to media reports, prolonged shortages of helium could soon translate into strained diagnostics, costlier scans and disrupted MRI supply chains.
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US Israel Iran War-Helium Shortages
Globally, Qatar accounts for approximately one-third of the world’s helium output. Recently, the country decided to shut off its liquefied helium plants in the Ras Laffan facility after strikes by the Islamic Republic of Iran. Qatar later declared Force Majeure, which means it would not be able to supply contracted customers because of circumstances beyond control.
Why is Helium Important in Healthcare?
Helium is widely used in MRI machines that help medical practitioners see inside the human body, whether to detect tumours, spine issues, brain injuries and much more.
Relying on super-powerful magnets, these machines require liquid helium to keep the magnets extremely cold (around -269°C). Without helium, MRI machines would stop working. This is the primary reason why helium is referred to as the “liquid gold” in the medical world.
Why India Is Especially Vulnerable?
India is heavily dependent on imported helium as it does not produce enough domestically. This means that any global disruption could severely impact the country’s healthcare system. The chances of India’s healthcare system collapsing may be dramatic but the risks are quite real.
If the situation stays troublesome for long, patients may struggle to get timely scans, delaying treatment. Essential tests may be skipped by poor and middle class families because of exorbitant costs. It is believed that rural hospitals and smaller cities would be the worst hit.
Helium shortages would not affect the country’s healthcare system but would impact scientific research, space & defence sectors and semiconductor manufacturing (chips).
A slow breakdown of diagnostic care may not just cost money but also precious lives.
