Global Omega-3 Shortage Poses Serious Health and Environmental Risks: Study

A new study published in AJPM Focus reveals a critical global shortage of omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids, essential nutrients that support vital functions in the brain, eyes, heart, and endocrine system. Led by Timothy Ciesielski, a research scientist in the Department of Population and Quantitative Health Sciences at Case Western Reserve University’s School of Medicine, the study warns of significant health consequences if access to uncontaminated omega-3s continues to decline.

Omega-3s are essential fats that the human body cannot produce in sufficient quantities on its own. Instead, they must be consumed through food or supplements, commonly sourced from fish and plant oils. But due to growing environmental challenges such as ocean warming, overfishing, and pollution, these nutrient-rich resources are becoming increasingly scarce.

The research team analyzed global dietary patterns and found that approximately 85% of the world's population fails to consume adequate levels of omega-3s. The imbalance is worsened by the modern industrial diet, which contains about 20 times more omega-6 fatty acids—fats that can interfere with omega-3s and promote chronic inflammation when consumed in excess.

The study emphasizes the urgent need to not only increase the production and accessibility of omega-3-rich foods but also to reduce intake of omega-6s. Doing so, the authors argue, could help prevent or reduce the risk of chronic conditions linked to inflammation, such as heart disease, cancer, preterm birth, and certain mental health disorders.

Only about 15% of countries have achieved sufficient omega-3 levels, mostly those with better access to marine resources. This finding underscores the importance of ocean conservation and sustainable fishery practices.

“This isn’t just a healthcare issue; it’s a public health and environmental challenge,” Ciesielski said. “Everyone should have the right to uncontaminated omega-3s in their diet. These are important questions that require our collective attention and action.”

Reference: Timothy H Ciesielski. Global Access to Uncontaminated Omega-3 Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids Requires Attention. AJPM Focus, 2025; 100341 DOI: 10.1016/j.focus.2025.100341