Omega-3 Index of Canadian adults

Two fatty acids—eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA)—have been associated with cardioprotective effects. The Omega-3 Index is the combined percentage of EPA and DHA of total fatty acids in red blood cell membranes. This study estimates EPA+DHA levels in terms of the Omega-3 Index and the cut-points for coronary heart disease (CHD) risk among a nationally representative sample of Canadian adults. Factors related to Omega-3 Index levels and potential associations with CHD-related factors were examined, using direct measures from the 2012/2013 Canadian Health Measures Survey.