Meta-analysis of the efficacy of ω-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids when treating patients with polycystic ovary syndrome

Abstract

Objective: To systematically assess the efficacy of ω-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) when treating polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Methods: This meta-analysis follows Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses criteria. We searched PubMed, EMBASE, ScienceDirect, Cochrane Library, China journal full-text database, VIP full-text Database, Wanfang Database, and Chinese Biomedical Literature Data for clinical trials on ω-3 PUFAs' efficacy in treating PCOS. Two independent reviewers examined and analyzed studies, resolving inconsistencies through discussion. RevMan5.3 software performed heterogeneity-based fixed and random-effects meta-analysis. We assessed bias using the Cochrane bias risk assessment tool. Results: Our meta-analysis included 7 clinical control studies comprising 574 samples to evaluate the impact of ω-3 PUFAs on various metabolic markers in PCOS patients. We observed a significant reduction in total cholesterol (TC) and triglyceride (TG) levels (P .05). Publication bias was not detected, enhancing the robustness of our results. Our study suggests that ω-3 PUFAs could be beneficial in managing specific metabolic markers in PCOS, although the results showed marked heterogeneity. Conclusion: In PCOS patients, PUFAs can enhance reproductive endocrine, glucose, and lipid levels. However, additional research and extended follow-up are required to confirm this.