[Omega-3 fatty acids in cardiology. Latest developments]

Abstract

Important cardiological societies all over the world recommend the omega-3 fatty acids eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) for follow-up treatment after myocardial infarction and for preventing sudden cardiac death and cardiovascular events. The recommendations are based on comprehensive data that were compiled in systematic reviews and meta-analyses. In epidemiological studies, the concentration of these two omega-3 fatty acids in humans correlated inversely to the probability of suffering sudden cardiac death. This concentration is best presented as the omega-3 index,which is a measure of the concentration of EPA and DHA in erythrocytes. The omega-3 index hence represents a risk factor for sudden cardiac death. This assertion is substantiated by statistical data on sudden cardiac death and by the results of interventional studies on omega-3 fatty acids. Through the intake of omega-3 fatty acids, the omega-3 index can be increased to a level (> 8%) at which sudden cardiac death is 90% less likely than at the usual index levels (< 4%). Due to methodological considerations and analytical problems, it is advisable to have the omega-3 index determined in certified laboratories.