Patients in Japan seek stable supply of medical goods as war concerns loom

Shortages of naphtha — an ingredient used to make plastic — has hospitals and patients in Japan worried about diminishing reserves as the war in Iran continues.

Plastic is widely used in medicine, from surgical gloves, syringes, transfusion bags and catheters to dialysis machines.

So far, there have been no reports of medical equipment shortages in Japan. But chronically ill patients have nevertheless voiced concerns about their long-term availability.