Omega-3 Fatty Acids Increase Weight and Quality of Life Scores in Patients With Advanced Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer and Cancer Cachexia: A Meta-Analysis
Abstract
Background: Cancer cachexia is a common debilitating weight loss syndrome in advanced cancer, particularly lung cancer. Omega-3 fatty acids, eicosapentaenoic acid and docosahexaenoic acid, with their immune-modulating effects, have been used to improve the nutritional status of patients with cancer cachexia. Aim: Evaluate the effects of omega-3 fatty acids in change in weight and lean body/skeletal mass, and health-related quality of life scores (HRQoL) in patients with advanced non-small cell lung cancer and cancer cachexia. Design and Data Sources: Clinical trials from electronic databases and unpublished literature (date of last search 20 December 2023) were independently reviewed and evaluated by authors for their methodological quality. Data from eligible trials were extracted and analyzed in a meta-analysis. Results: Six trials were included. Five trials (354 patients) assessed change in weight; 2 trials (132 patients) assessed change in lean body/skeletal mass and HRQoL scores (Global Health and Physical Functioning subscales). There is a significant difference in change in weight (mean difference [MD]: 1.22, 95% CI: 1.05-1.38, P < .01) and HRQoL scores (Global Health [MD: 14.40, 95% CI: 9.22-19.59, P < .01] and Physical Functioning [MD: 10.38, 95% CI: 8.50-12.27, P < .01] subscales) favoring the omega-3 fatty acids group. The change in lean body/skeletal mass is not significant (MD: 2.05, 95% CI: −0.55 to 4.66, P = .12). Conclusions: Among patients with advanced…
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: 354 participants or records.
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