Science, medicine, and the future: Omega 3 fatty acids and cardiovascular disease—fishing for a natural treatment

Summary points Coronary heart disease is still the most common cause of death in the United Kingdom Omega 3 fatty acids from fish and fish oils can protect against coronary heart disease There is evidence to support the use of fish or fish oil supplements after myocardial infarction The mechanisms by which fish oils confer their benefits are not fully understood Unravelling these mechanisms may identify novel therapeutic targets and could help guide the development of future treatments for coronary heart disease Future trials may identify other patients who could benefit, such as those with stable angina, risk factors for coronary heart disease, or left ventricular dysfunction