Omega-3 supplements for patients in chemotherapy and/or radiotherapy: A systematic review

summary Background & aims: Eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), in vitro and in vivo, used along with anticancer drugs, have improved cancer treatment outcome. Clinical studies have reported positive results with omega-3 supplements in oncologic patients. We summarized only randomized controlled clinical trials involving the administration of DHA and/or EPA during chemotherapy and/or radiotherapy to assess the effects on treatment outcomes. Methods: We conducted a systematic literature search using specific terms. Of 157 publications, 10 were selected on the basis of their methodological quality, according to the Oxford Quality Scale and the Cochrane Concealment Assessment. Outcome included body weight and composition, peripheral neuropathy, immune, inflammatory and oxidative status, quality of life, and membrane omega-3 fatty acids incorporation.