Abstract 16146: Clinical Significant of the Ratio of Eicosapentaenoic Acid to Arachidonic Acid as a Risk Marker for Coronary Artery Disease

Introduction: The plasma eicosapentaenoic acid to arachidonic acid ratio (EPA/AA), which is determined only by dietary intake, has been attracting attention as a new risk marker for coronary artery disease (CAD). A Japanese inland prefecture, Tochigi, ranks higher mortality rate from CAD and lower seafood consumption, compared to other prefectures. The aim of this study was to investigate the EPA/AA ratio in residents of Tochigi prefecture. Methods and Results: We measured the EPA/AA ratio in patients undergoing diagnostic coronary angiography, because of suspicion for having CAD. In all of the patients, statins but not EPA agents were given. A total of 816 patients were enrolled in 7 centers around Tochigi prefecture. In overall patients, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol level was well controlled as 88±33 mg/dl. The median value of the EPA/AA ratio in all patients was 0.37. The EPA/AA ratio was lower in younger patients (<60 yrs), compared to elderly patients (≥60 yrs) (P<0.01). When subjects were div...