Effect of Omega-3 Fatty Acids on Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials

Study answer

What this study found

Compared with placebo, Omega-3 supplementation was associated with weight gain (mean difference 0.25, 95% CI 0.02 to 0.48; P=0.03), higher LDL (0.70, 95% CI 0.30 to 1.10; P<0.001), and reduced IL-6 (−0.32, 95% CI −0.60 to −0.05; P=0.02). No significant differences were found for lung function, 6-minute walk distance, or quality of life. Interpret with caution due to limited and heterogeneous evidence; overall effects on COPD outcomes are not clearly favorable.

Study & population

Eight randomized controlled trials in COPD patients (n=418; mean age 67.3 years, SD 10.2).

Intervention

Omega-3 fatty acids delivered via oral or enteral nutritional supplements (ONS/ENS).

Key limitation

Small number of trials with diverse regimens and populations; variable outcome reporting; short durations and incomplete reporting of key measures; potential risk of bias due to allocation concealment and possible industry funding; inability to draw firm conclusions about long-term clinical benefits.

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Original abstract