Endocrine Abstracts

Introduction: Omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) have emerged as pivotal factors in mitigating the risk of cardiovascular disease. Extensive research has demonstrated their ability to reduce both fatal and non-fatal events such as myocardial infarction, stroke, and coronary artery disease. This study aims to assess the Omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids(PUFAs) intake, encompassing all three types of omega-3, within a cohort of diabetic coronary patients.

Material and method : Thirty patients aged between 18 and 70 years, diagnosed with type 2 diabetes mellitus and having experienced at least one coronary event, were included in the study. An alimentary survey utilizing the 24-hour dietary recall technique and a validated questionnaire of frequency was conducted and analyzed using dietetic software to assess omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids intake.

Results: The mean age of the consultants was 55.7±13 years, with extremes ranging from 38 to 82 years. The M/F sex ratio was 0.4 and the mean BMI 30.41 kg/m². Among the patients, 89% had an insufficient apport of omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids and 61% of them take fish only one time a month. The mean intake of alpha-linolenic acid (ALA) was 45.7 mg±18.9, that of Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) was 60.2 mg±22.8 g.

Discussion: Despite the crucial need for an adequate daily intake of omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids, especially in a population with a very high cardiovascular risk, such as the subjects in our study, actual intake falls significantly below recommended levels, primarily due to ignorance and limited resources. A comprehensive dietary education, particularly tailored for this patient category, should be considered in the future.