Effects of ω-3 Fatty Acid Supplementation in Patients with Bile Duct or Pancreatic Cancer Undergoing Chemotherapy

Abstract

Background/aim: Omega-3 fatty acids may improve cancer cachexia, but only in patients with pancreatic and bile duct cancer. Patients with pancreatic cancer commonly suffer from exocrine pancreatic insufficiency, and the ingestion of digestive enzyme supplements may improve absorption.

Patients and methods: Racol®, an enteral nutrient formulated with omega-3 fatty acids, was administered to patients with unresectable pancreatic and bile duct cancer. The skeletal muscle mass and blood test data were taken pre-administration and at 4 and 8 weeks after. Patients with pancreatic cancer were given the digestive enzyme supplement LipaCreon® from the fifth week after the start of administration.

Results: In all 27 patients, skeletal muscle mass was significantly increased at both 4 and 8 weeks after the start of administration versus pre-administration (p=0.006, p=0.002, respectively).

Conclusion: Omega-3 fatty acid supplementation in patients with unresectable pancreatic and bile duct cancer may improve cancer cachexia.

Keywords: Biliary-pancreatic cancer; cancer cachexia; omega-3 fatty acids.