Update on Omega-3 Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids on Cardiovascular Health.

Area of Science:

• Cardiology
• Biochemistry
• Pharmacology

Background:

• Cardiovascular diseases (CVD) cause 20% of US deaths.
• High atherosclerotic CVD (ASCVD) event rates persist in hyperlipidemia patients on statins.
• Elevated triglycerides (TG) are linked to poor cholesterol profiles and increased ASCVD risk.

Approach:

• Systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) on omega-3 fatty acids (Ω3FAs).
• Analysis of Ω3FAs' impact on CVD outcomes, including fatal and total myocardial infarctions (MIs).
• Exploration of Ω3FAs' effects across diverse pathologies, including autoimmune, infectious, kidney, CNS diseases, and COVID-19.

Key Points:

• Ω3FAs (fish oils) are recommended for severe hypertriglyceridemia.
• RCTs demonstrate Ω3FAs reduce very high TG levels, hospitalizations, and CVD mortality.
• Largest meta-analysis confirms significant CVD outcome benefits, particularly for fatal MIs.

Conclusions:

• Ω3FAs show broad therapeutic potential beyond cardiovascular health.
• Evidence supports Ω3FAs in managing hypertriglyceridemia and reducing ASCVD events.
• This paper reviews Ω3FA controversies, recent findings, and updated recommendations.