Degenerative rotator cuff tears are associated with a low Omega-3 Index.

Background: The etiology of degenerative rotator cuff tears is multifactorial but chronic inflammation plays an important role in the pathogenesis. Some polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) can modulate inflammation and marine n-3 (Omega-3) PUFA have anti-inflammatory effects. We hypothesized that the Omega-3 Index is lower in patients with degenerative rotator cuff tears when compared to controls without rotator cuff tendinopathy.

Trans-fatty acid levels in erythrocytes in Europe.

Purpose: High, but not low levels of trans-fatty acids (TFA) in erythrocytes are associated with increased mortality. Current erythrocyte TFA levels in Europe are not known.

Methods: TFA levels in samples submitted by physicians for erythrocyte omega-3 fatty acid analyses are reported, as analysed with a method (HS-Omega-3 Index) previously used in pertinent prospective epidemiologic studies.