Global variations in omega-3 fatty acid status and omega-6:omega-3 ratios: insights from > 500,000 whole-blood dried blood spot samples

Abstract

Omega-3 (n-3) fatty acids are critical for human health, with the omega-6 (n-6) to n-3 fatty acid ratio and the omega-3 levels recognized as contributing to the risk of many chronic non-communicable diseases. Direct measurement of fatty acid levels in blood provides the most accurate assessment of fatty acid status and balance, with fingertip dried blood spot (DBS) analysis offering a practical and cost-effective assessment method. This study analyses more than 590,000 globally sourced DBS samples, providing fatty acid profiles in whole blood across diverse populations. Results reveal significant global and demographic disparities in n-3 levels and n-6:n-3 ratios, with suboptimal n-3 levels and imbalanced n-6:n-3 ratios prevalent worldwide. While the findings align with general trends reported in previous global mapping studies on omega-3 status in red blood cells (RBC), they are based on whole blood measurements and highlight the utility of DBS testing for large-scale monitoring. These results underscore the need to enhance n-3 fatty acid intakes to help mitigate multiple global health challenges and demonstrate the utility of fingertip DBS testing as a practical approach to design dietary interventions to promote overall well-being.