Back to: Introduction to Evidence Synthesis

Process: CESH conducted an exhaustive search of existing research on omega-3 fatty acids and cardiovascular disease. It excluded studies that were irrelevant or failed to meet the systematic review’s eligibility criteria. Then, it used statistical methods to combine the results of the studies that remained.

Answer: After looking at all of the available evidence, CESH found that omega-3 fatty acids improved some “intermediate” outcomes (like lower triglycerides and low-density lipoproteins cholesterol), but found little evidence that omega-3 fatty acids actually contribute to a reduction in heart attacks and strokes.