ge of life consumers need to be aware of both the benefits and risks of eating fish. Children, pregnant and nursing women may be at increased risk of exposure to excessive mercury from fish but also are generally at low risk for CVD. Thus, avoiding potentially contaminated fish is a higher priority for these groups, says Kris-Etherton.

For middle aged and older men, and postmenopausal women, the benefits of eating fish far outweigh the risks within the established guidelines.

"This is hopeful news as we have found that the effects of omega-3 fatty acids on heart disease risk is seen in relatively short periods of time," Kris-Etherton says. "The research shows that all omega-3 fats have cardioprotective benefits, especially those in fish."

Although the mechanisms responsible for omega-3 fatty acids' reduction of CVD risk are still being studied, research has shown:

• Decrease risk of sudden death and arrhythmia.
• Decrease thrombosis (blood clot).
• Decrease triglyceride levels.
• Decrease growth of atherosclerotic plaque.
• Improve arterial health.
• Lower blood pressure.

Co-authors are William S. Harris, Ph.D., and Lawrence J. Appel, M.D., M.P.H.

'"/>

Contact: Carole Bullock
214-706-1279
American Heart Association
18-Nov-2002

Page: 1 2
Related medicine news :

1. Treatment guidelines for kids with bipolar disorder published
2. Stroke patients receive better care when hospitals get with the guidelines
3. Simpler alphabet guidelines for treating acute coronary syndrome reduce risk
4. CPR performance does not follow guidelines
5. Quality of in-hospital CPR may fail to meet guidelines
6. Study of CPR quality reveals frequent deviation from guidelines
7. PENN study emphasizes need for national guidelines for assisted reproductive technology programs
8. New treatment guidelines for pregnant women with asthma
9. New guidelines conclude all aerosol therapy devices equally effective
10. New guidelines for treating pediatric migraine released
11. Endocrine Society calls for clinical guidelines on androgens for women