A staggering five billion people—nearly two-thirds of the global population—lack access to essential medical oxygen, with the greatest shortages affecting low- and middle-income countries, according to a new report by The Lancet Global Health Commission on Medical Oxygen Security.

This landmark report provides the first global estimate of disparities in medical oxygen access, highlighting critical gaps in coverage for patients in need. It also outlines the financial resources required to address these inequalities.

Medical oxygen is a fundamental component of healthcare, used for treating patients undergoing surgery, managing asthma, responding to trauma, and supporting maternal and child care. Despite its importance, many healthcare systems in resource-limited nations struggle to provide adequate oxygen supplies, leading to preventable deaths.

The commission’s findings stress the urgent need for global efforts to improve medical oxygen infrastructure and ensure equitable access to this life-saving resource, particularly in vulnerable regions.