Impact of Omega-3 Fatty Acids on Cardiovascular Disease Prevention: an updated Meta-analysis of RCTs

Abstract

Background: Omega-3 fatty acids have been extensively studied for their potential role in cardiovascular disease (CVD) prevention. This meta-analysis aims to provide an updated synthesis of data from randomized controlled trials (RCTs) to assess the efficacy of omega-3 supplementation in reducing cardiovascular risk. Methods: We conducted a meta-analysis of 17 RCTs involving 82,592 patients. The primary outcomes assessed were changes in triglyceride and LDL cholesterol levels, the incidence of major cardiovascular events (MACE), and cardiac mortalities. Statistical analyses were performed using a random-effects model. Results: Omega-3 supplementation resulted in a significant reduction in triglyceride levels by an average of 4.41 mg/dL (95% CI: -10.16 to 1.88) and a modest decrease in LDL levels by 0.70 mg/dL (95% CI: -2.12 to 0.72). Additionally, omega-3 fatty acids were associated with a 10% reduction in the risk of major cardiovascular events (RR: 0.90, 95% CI: 0.82 to 0.99) and a 35% reduction in cardiac mortalities (RR: 0.65, 95% CI: 0.44 to 0.95). Conclusion: This meta-analysis supports the use of omega-3 fatty acids as a preventive strategy in cardiovascular care, demonstrating significant benefits in lowering triglyceride levels, reducing major cardiovascular events, and decreasing cardiac mortalities.