Health Effects of Omega-3 Fatty Acids on Asthma. Evidence Report/Technology Assessment Number 91

摘要

Considerable interest in the possible value of omega-3 fatty acid supplementation in asthma was sparked by Horrobins hypothesis that the low incidence of asthma in Eskimos stems from their consumption of large quantities of oily fish, rich in omega-3 fatty acids. Additional impetus for research came from observations that omega-3 fatty acids possible protective, or even therapeutic, effect might be afforded by their impact on mediators of inflammation thought to be related to the pathogenesis of asthma. The purpose of this study was to conduct a systematic review of the scientificmedical literature to identify, appraise, and synthesize the evidence for the health effects of omega-3 fatty acids in asthma. Questions addressed the: efficacy of omega-3 fatty acids to improve respiratory outcomes; impact of covariates (e.g., omega-3 fatty acid source, type, and dose) on efficacy; influence of omega-3 fatty acids on mediators of inflammation thought to be related to the pathogenesis of asthma; value of omega-3 fatty acids as primary prevention as well as secondary prevention; and, safety profile in asthma populations, or subpopulations, and those at risk. The results may be used to inform a research agenda as well as to assist clinicians in advising patients who may wish to take this supplementation to treat or prevent asthma.