Relationship: Cancer (natural therapy for) and EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid)

Evidence supporting the use of: EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid)
For the health condition: Cancer (natural therapy for)

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Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2

Eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), an omega-3 fatty acid found in fish oil, has been investigated for its potential role in cancer support, particularly as an adjunct to conventional therapies. Scientific interest in EPA for cancer patients mainly centers around its anti-inflammatory properties and its ability to modulate immune responses, which are relevant because chronic inflammation and immune dysfunction are associated with cancer progression and cachexia (muscle wasting). Several clinical trials and meta-analyses suggest that EPA supplementation may help reduce cancer-associated cachexia, improve appetite, and preserve lean body mass, especially in patients with advanced cancers such as pancreatic and lung cancer. For example, a 2012 Cochrane review found limited but positive evidence that EPA could modestly benefit nutritional status in cancer patients experiencing cachexia.

Beyond cachexia, laboratory studies have shown that EPA can inhibit cancer cell proliferation and induce apoptosis in various cancer cell lines. Animal studies support these findings, but robust evidence in humans for direct anti-tumor effects is lacking. While preclinical data are promising, clinical trials have primarily shown benefit only in supportive care (e.g., improving quality of life and nutritional status), not in cancer cure or major disease control.

Therefore, the use of EPA in cancer is supported by some scientific evidence, mostly related to symptom management rather than direct anti-cancer effects. It is generally considered safe and may be recommended as a nutritional adjunct for certain patients, but it should not replace standard cancer therapies.

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Evidence supporting the use of: EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid)
For the health condition: Cancer (natural therapy for)

Table of Contents

Synopsis

Other ingredients used for Cancer (natural therapy for)

Other health conditions supported by EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid)

Products containing EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid)

Health Concerns

Brands

Evidence supporting the use of: EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid)For the health condition: Cancer (natural therapy for)

Table of Contents

Synopsis

Other ingredients used for Cancer (natural therapy for)

Other health conditions supported by EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid)

Products containing EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid)

Evidence supporting the use of: EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid)
For the health condition: Cancer (natural therapy for)