Keri Marshall, Robert J. Winwood*
1. DSM Nutritional Products, Columbia, USA
2. DSM Nutritional Products, Kaiseraugst, Switzerland

Abstract

There is increasing evidence that the addition of the omega-3 fatty acids Eicosapentaenoic Acid (EPA) and Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) in conjunction with conventional cytotoxic therapies for cancer may provide health benefits. Animal models have shown that high dose EPA and DHA improves the efficacy of chemotherapy while reducing the side effects. Designing and operating human trials provides challenges. However several smaller trials have shown promise, particularly in breast, lung, gastrointestinal and treatment resistant cancers. DHA specifically appears to be cytotoxic to some types of cancer cells. While the underlying mechanisms have yet to be fully elucidated, it appears probable that DHA promotes programmed cell death (apoptosis) while simultaneously protecting healthy cells. Additionally, evidence suggests that EPA and DHA can reduce the damaging effects of cachexia experienced by cancer patients in the latter stages of the disease.

INTRODUCTION

While there has been considerable progress in cancer therapies, conventional cytotoxic treatments such as chemo- and radiotherapy have multiple limitations including unwanted side effects, and unsatisfactory long-term survival, primarily related to developed drug resistance by tumor cells and toxicity towards healthy cells. 

Conventional therapies do more than kill cancer cells: normal cells also die in massive numbers, leading to significant local and systemic toxicity. As a result, patients are plagued with unwanted and debilitating side-effects from the very treatment intended to heal them.  Side effects may include fatigue, diarrhea/constipation, muscle pain, nausea/vomiting and disturbance to the nervous system (1). This often leads to dose reduction and sometimes discontinuation of treatment. Hence therapeutic treatment adjuncts that enable reduction in dose and/or duration of chemo- and radiotherapy is likely to improve quality of life (QOL) and ultimately extend survival.

Common side effects of chemotherapy include cognitive deficiencies such as problems with attention, memory, motivation and neuropathy. These symptoms can de ...