Oxygen is vital to many medical procedures. But a safe, affordable supply is severely lacking around the world, according to a new report.

Oxygen is critical in a medical environment for a variety of patients—from those going through surgical procedures to patients with pneumonia or other respiratory issues, chronic lung conditions, and infections like sepsis or malaria.

Over five billion people worldwide lack reliable access to medical oxygen, a crucial resource for treating various health conditions. A new report stresses the need for national oxygen plans, increased funding,