Nearly two-thirds of the world’s population—around five billion people—lack access to medical oxygen, with low- and middle-income countries being the most affected, according to a new report by The Lancet Commission.

Medical oxygen is a crucial component of healthcare, essential for treating patients undergoing surgery, managing asthma, trauma cases, and maternal and child care. Despite its critical role, access remains severely limited in many parts of the world, leading to preventable deaths and complications.

The report underscores the urgent need for global efforts to improve oxygen availability, particularly in resource-poor nations. Researchers emphasize that ensuring a steady supply of medical oxygen is not only vital for routine healthcare but also crucial for pandemic preparedness. The COVID-19 pandemic exposed significant gaps in oxygen access, leading to widespread shortages and mass casualties in several countries.

The commission calls for increased investment, infrastructure development, and policy interventions to bridge the gap in oxygen supply, ensuring equitable access to this life-saving resource for all.