A recent study led by Aronson and colleagues sheds light on the potential benefits of omega-3 fatty acids for patients with early-stage prostate cancer. Conducted as a single-center, phase 2, randomized, open-label trial, the research involved 100 men diagnosed with grade 1/2 prostate cancer who opted for active surveillance. Funded by several institutions, including the National Cancer Institute and UCLA Health Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center, the study explored how dietary changes might impact cancer progression.
The primary objective of the study was to assess the change in the Ki-67 index from baseline to one year using same-site biopsies between two groups. Patients were randomized evenly into a control group maintaining their usual diet without fish oil and an intervention group following a low omega-6/high omega-3 diet, supplemented with 2.2 grams of fish oil per day for one year. The intervention group also incorporated salmon and tuna, rich in omega-3s, into their diet.
The findings revealed that the Ki-67 index decreased by 15% in the intervention group while increasing by 24% in the control group. This suggests a potential benefit of omega-3 fatty acids in slowing cancer progression. Furthermore, the study noted reductions in triglyceride levels and macrophage colony-stimulating factor within the intervention group, although no significant changes were observed in tumor volume grade group, PSA levels, or Decipher 22 gene scores.
However, the study did face limitations. Four participants discontinued due to gastrointestinal side effects such as diarrhea and nausea, indicating the need for larger sample sizes to better assess tolerability. Bradley Alexander McGregor, MD, emphasized the importance of motivation in patients undergoing such dietary changes.
"An aggressive intervention with dietary changes and addition of fish oil and patients need to be highly motivated," said Bradley Alexander McGregor, MD.
While the study presents promising data, McGregor also cautioned against widespread recommendation without further evidence.
"Based on this data alone, it should not be recommended but can be considered for highly motivated patients after discussion of the limitations of available data and side effects," McGregor added.
The study's findings align with existing research suggesting that higher intake of omega-3 fatty acids correlates with reduced mortality risk from prostate cancer. Aronson noted that these results support future phase 3 trials integrating this dietary intervention for men on active surveillance.
"This data is certainly intriguing and supports studies looking at this further in prostate cancer," McGregor stated.
Despite encouraging initial results, the long-term implications of this diet remain uncertain. McGregor highlighted the need for additional research to confirm these findings and understand the broader impact.
"It’s important to note that this was a small study and more research is needed to confirm the findings," McGregor remarked.
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