Effects of Omega-3 Fatty Acid Supplementation on Serum Biomarkers, Inflammatory Agents, and Quality of Life of Patients on Hemodialysis

Abstract

Introduction. Patients on long-term hemodialysis are at a higher risk of cardiovascular disease and premature mortality. It is generally believed that omega-3 supplementation can prevent cardiovascular events due to its anti-inflammatory and anti-atherosclerotic effects.

Materials and Methods. Fifty-two hemodialysis patients were divided into 2 groups to receive omega-3 and placebo for 6 six months. Serum biomarkers and inflammatory agents were measured in both groups before and after the intervention. Quality of life was also assessed before and after the trial using the Kidney Disease Quality of Life-Short Form questionnaire.

Results. Patients who received omega-3 showed an increase in serum calcium level (P = .005), a decrease in vascular cell adhesion molecule (P = .04), and an increase in the high-density lipoprotein cholesterol level (P < .001), while such changes were not documented in the control group. However, omega-3 administration did not have a significant effect on serum levels of albumin, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, or triglyceride. Quality of life scores were improved after treatment with omega-3 in both scopes of general and kidney-specific assessment (P = .37 and P = .20, respectively), while no similar changes were seen in the control group.

Conclusions. Our data showed beneficial effects of omega-3 supplementation during chronic hemodialysis on inflammatory processes and also quality of life. We suggest administration of omega-3 in the hemodialysis community in a preventive manner for improvement of cardiovascular events and quality of life.