New Delhi: Concerns are mounting over potential disruptions to diagnostic healthcare services as tensions in the Middle East threaten global helium supplies, a critical component used in MRI scanners. The situation follows reports of an attack on Ras Laffan Industrial City in Qatar, a key hub for natural gas and liquefied helium production.
Industry observers warn that countries like India, which rely on helium imports, could face challenges if the supply chain is significantly affected. Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI), an essential diagnostic tool used to detect neurological conditions, joint injuries and cardiac issues, depends on liquid helium to cool superconducting magnets in most machines.
India has an estimated 5,000 to 7,000 MRI machines across public and private healthcare facilities. While the majority are imported, some are now being manufactured or upgraded domestically by companies such as Voxelgrids Innovation. Despite this, helium remains a crucial input for the functioning of many systems.
Experts, however, indicate that immediate disruption to services may be limited. Modern MRI scanners increasingly use zero boil-off technology, which significantly reduces the need for frequent helium refilling. Most machines installed in India over the past decade require helium only during installation and can operate without replenishment unless technical faults or leaks occur.
Older MRI units, however, remain dependent on periodic helium refills and could be more vulnerable to supply constraints. Major helium producers include the United States and Australia, alongside Qatar, and the commodity is traded globally.
While a severe supply crisis is considered unlikely unless the conflict escalates further, experts caution that rising helium prices could increase healthcare costs and ultimately impact patients.