Association between omega-3 fatty acid intake and risk of diabetic retinopathy: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Abstract
Background: Diabetic Retinopathy is a significant microvascular complication of diabetes mellitus characterized by progressive damage to the retinal vasculature. Current management strategies focus on modifying risk factors and treating established disease. Omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) demonstrate anti-inflammatory, antioxidative, and vasculoprotective properties.
Objectives: To evaluate the protective effects of omega-3 fatty acids on DR incidence, progression, and microvascular health across diverse diabetic populations.
Methods: A comprehensive literature search was conducted via PubMed, EBSCO Open Research, ScienceDirect, Wiley Online Library, and Google Scholar. A reviewer screened the potential articles against prespecified eligibility criteria. The risk of bias in the eligible studies was then evaluated using the Newcastle Ottawa Scale (NOS), a Risk of Bias visualization tool developed by the Cochrane Collaboration (ROB 2.0). Data were then systematically extracted and analyzed.
Results: Fourteen studies involving 139,879 participants were analyzed. Omega-3 fatty acid intake of ≥500 mg/day significantly reduced the risk of sight-threatening diabetic retinopathy (DR) by 48% (HR = 0.52; 95% CI: 0.31-0.88; p = 0.001). Subgroup meta-analysis showed a stronger associated protective effect in type 2 diabetes (T2D) compared to type 1 (T1D), with a pooled hazard ratio of 0.71 (log HR = -0.339; SE = 0.0667; p < 0.000001). The antioxidant benefits were linked by…
How strong is the evidence?
Evidence Hub reads this as a meta-analysis, done in people. Its evidence level is 1 of 5 (Highest · pooled evidence). Pooled evidence from several studies sits at the top of the evidence pyramid. Reported size: 139,879 participants or records.
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