Does Fish Oil Reduce the Risk of Cardiovascular Events and Death? Recent Level 1 Evidence Says Yes: PRO: Fish Oil is Useful to Prevent or Treat Cardiovascular Disease

Mo Med. 2021 May-Jun;118(3):214-218.

Abstract

Over the past decade there has been a considerable debate whether fish oil supplementation works to prevent and/or treat cardiovascular disease. This is due to the fact that previous studies testing fish oil in Italy and Japan found significant reductions in all-cause mortality, sudden cardiac death, and cardiovascular events, whereas more recent studies have in general been considered negative. We will discuss the reasons for these discrepancies and pave a better path forward when it comes to interpreting studies testing fish oil for the prevention or treatment of cardiovascular disease.

MeSH terms

  • Cardiovascular Diseases* / epidemiology
  • Cardiovascular Diseases* / prevention & control
  • Death, Sudden, Cardiac
  • Dietary Supplements
  • Fatty Acids, Omega-3*
  • Fish Oils / therapeutic use
  • Humans

Substances

  • Fatty Acids, Omega-3
  • Fish Oils