n–3 Fatty Acids and the Risk of Sudden Death

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Abstract
The observations of Albert et al. (April 11 issue)1 on the protective effects of long-chain n–3 fatty acids (largely available in fish) with regard to sudden death may have profound clinical implications. These findings confirm previous observations that suggest that dietary patterns may reduce sudden death without an effect on myocardial infarction.2-4 A major underlying cause of sudden death is myocardial ischemia and infarction, as suggested by the authors' definition of sudden death: “death within one hour after the onset of symptoms.” These symptoms may include chest pain, and therefore some patients who die suddenly have had an ischemic event, most probably an acute myocardial infarction.