Should we take omega-3 supplements or eat 2 servings of omega-3-rich fish a week, as recommended by the American Heart Association? The studies on this subject are numerous and their conclusions are unclear, especially when it comes to the risk of prostate cancer. A team from the Intermountain Healthcare Heart Institute (Salt Lake City) has continued research into the benefits and risks of such supplementation, in particular, the possible increase in the risk of prostate cancer. The findings, presented at the scientific meeting of the American Heart Association (AHA) in 2019, confirm that there is no link between elevated plasma levels of omega-3 and increased cancer risk. On the other hand, the cardiac benefits are confirmed, even in the case of pre-existing coronary artery diseases.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids
In 2013, a study* was published in the journal of the National Cancer Institute that suggested a possible link between high plasma levels of omega-3 and the development of aggressive prostate cancer. Other studies yielded mixed results on this risk. Several studies have also shown the benefits of omega-3 for the prevention of other cancers. The question is, therefore, whether the recommendation of omega-3 to patients, who have been shown that it can benefit their heart health (and cognitive health), does not expose them to an increased risk of prostate cancer.
Read Also: Eating Mushrooms 3 Times a Week Can Lower Prostate Cancer Risk by up to 17%
Omega-3 levels do not seem to increase the risk of prostate cancer
In a first study, the researchers identified 87 patients who developed prostate cancer. These patients were also tested to determine their plasma levels of docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), 2 common omega-3 fatty acids. These data were compared with a control group of 149 participants, free of prostate cancer. The analysis concluded that high levels of omega-3 are not associated with an increased risk of cancer.
Omega-3 appears to be beneficial for survival even in cases of pre-existing coronary artery disease: a second study examines data from 894 patients with no history of myocardial infarction or coronary artery disease and referred them for coronary angiography. The analysis showed that about 40% of these patients have severe coronary artery disease and about 10% in the three major coronary arteries. The researchers measured plasma levels of omega-3 metabolites (including DHA and EPA) and followed these participants in the incidence of cardiovascular events (heart attack, stroke, heart failure, or death). The analysis confirmed that patients with high levels of omega-3 metabolites had a lower risk of adverse events during follow-up, whether or not they were diagnosed with a serious disease during the first angiogram.
The study is thus the first to assess how omega-3s can help patients who have already developed cardiovascular disease. The results confirm that regardless of the cardiovascular risks that a patient may have, omega-3 levels are inversely proportional to the risk of future cardiac events.
Read Also: A Simple Urine Test to Diagnose Prostate Cancer Is 70% More Sensitive Than Blood Tests for PSA
FAQ: Omega-3 Supplements vs. Fish Consumption
- Does this study confirm that omega-3 supplements are safe?
Yes, the study found no link between high plasma levels of omega-3 and an increased risk of prostate cancer, addressing concerns raised by earlier research. - If omega-3 doesn’t increase cancer risk, why was there debate?
A 2013 study suggested a potential link between high omega-3 levels and aggressive prostate cancer, but subsequent research, including this study, did not confirm that finding. - Should people with heart disease take omega-3 supplements?
Yes. The study found that omega-3s are beneficial even for those with existing coronary artery disease, lowering the risk of future cardiovascular events. - Is it better to get omega-3 from food or supplements?
The American Heart Association recommends eating two servings of omega-3-rich fish per week, as food sources provide additional nutrients. However, supplements can be a good option for those who don’t consume enough fish. - How do omega-3s help heart health?
They reduce inflammation, lower triglycerides, and may help prevent heart attacks and strokes. This study confirmed their protective effects, even in high-risk patients.
References
Alexander W. Prostate cancer risk and omega-3 Fatty Acid intake from fish oil: a closer look at media messages versus research findings. P T. 2013 Sep;38(9):561-4. PMID: 24273402; PMCID: PMC3828934; https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3828934/.
Intermountain Healthcare. (2019, November 16). Omega-3 continues to show protection against heart disease-related death, without prostate cancer risk. [News Release]. Intermountain Healthcare. https://news.intermountainhealth.org/omega-3-continues-to-show-protection-against-heart-disease-related-death-without-prostate-cancer-risk/
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