Omega-3 Long-chain Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids for Bronchopulmonary Dysplasia: A Meta-analysis

CONTEXT: Previous studies have suggested that intervention with omega-3 long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (N-3 LCPUFAs), especially docosahexaenoic acid, can reduce the incidence of bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD) in preterm infants. However, conflicting results have been reported. OBJECTIVE: We conducted this meta-analysis to investigate the effect of intervention with N-3 LCPUFAs on the incidence of BPD in preterm infants. DATA SOURCES: PubMed, Embase, and the Cochrane Library were searched for articles published from database inception to October 1, 2018. STUDY SELECTION: We included randomized controlled trials (RCTs) in which the effect of intervention with N-3 LCPUFAs on the incidence of BPD was examined. DATA EXTRACTION: Two independent authors conducted the literature search and data extraction. The risk ratio was determined, and subgroup analyses were performed. RESULTS: After applying the inclusion criteria, 14 RCTs with 3531 preterm infants were included in the study. Intervention with N-3 LCPUFAs revealed no significant effect on the incidence of BPD in preterm infants (risk ratio: 0.99; 95% confidence interval: 0.84–1.18; Z = 0.08; P = .93). Our secondary subgroup analysis, which was stratified by gestational age, birth weight, dosage of docosahexaenoic acid, and duration of intervention, also revealed no significant effects. LIMITATIONS: The populations, protocols, and pharmaceutical ingredients of N-3 LCPUFAs vary among the included RCTs. CONCLUSIONS: The results of our meta-analysis indicate that intervention with N-3 LCPUFAs cannot prevent BPD in preterm infants. These findings provide no support for intervention with N-3 LCPUFAs in preterm infants.