Helium-hogging MRIs ruin birthdays.

As a worldwide helium shortage worsens, many groups are blaming MRI machines--which use helium to cool their powerful magnets--for hogging the resource, reported the CBC, a Canadian news outlet. About one-fifth of the world's helium supply is used in MRI machines, and world demand for helium, driven by increased use of MRI and diagnostic imaging, has grown by 25% since 2003. Other industries that rely on the gas and are vying for their fair share include laser welding, microchip production, particle accelerators, and party-supply stores (for helium balloons). Few physician groups have issued statements on the issue, but members of the party entertainment industry have voiced concern, in high squeaky voices, about the shortage. "Balloons are fun and make people smile. MRIs are scary and tell people they are sick," said Buster the clown, who admitted receiving an MRI following a run-in with an errant trapeze. "Balloons are important," he said. "Laughter is the best medicine!" Buster disclosed a financial conflict of interest in that his act at children's parties relies heavily on balloons, of both the helium and animal variety. He added that he is available for booking and can juggle.