Balloons filled with helium have been deemed ‘a waste’ by medical professionals who have plead to for an end to the gas being used in this way – due to fears of it running out.
The British Medical Association (BMA) has called to an end of its ‘frivolous’ use in balloons – supporting its conservation for medical uses in MRI machines and as Heliox (a helium/oxygen mix used to aid breathing).
Speaking at the BMA annual conference in Liverpool, anaesthetist Dr. Tom Dolphin said using helium in balloons was a ‘colossal waste’ of the element.
“This invaluable, irreplaceable gas is being literally handed to children in balloons so they can be entertained for a few minutes until they get bored and let go,” he told the conference.
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