Associations of omega-3 fatty acid supplement use with cardiovascular disease risks

In light of current guidelines that recommend marine-derived omega-3 fatty acids for cardiovascular protection, researchers studied the literature for proof of the benefits of this strategy. Their meta-analysis is based on 10 large randomized trials that evaluated the relationships between marine-derived omega-3 fatty acid supplementation and risk of fatal or nonfatal coronary heart disease and major vascular events. Results from nearly 78,000 participants with elevated risk of cardiovascular disease revealed that random allocation to omega-3 fatty acid supplements was not significantly associated with coronary heart disease death or events, nonfatal myocardial infarction, or major vascular events. The finding was applicable to the study population as a whole as well as to patient subsets including individuals with diabetes or elevated lipid levels, statin users, and people with a prior history of coronary heart disease. The investigators conclude that existing evidence does not back up current guidelines advocating the use of omega-3 fatty acid supplements as a preventive measure against fatal coronary heart disease or any cardiovascular disease in high-risk patients.