There are a number of well-known health advantages of the ω-3 fatty acids from fish oil (FO) with regard to cancer patients. Aside from the recognized anti-cachectic effect, Omega-3 fatty acids can also act together with chemotherapeutic agents. The science suggests that this may help to augment tumor radio sensitivity. However, the actual mechanisms underlying these anti-tumor outcomes are incredibly complex.
Epidemiological along with experimental evidence does support the assumption that FO has a notable anti-cancer benefit in humans as well as animals. Researchers point out that the high omega-6 diets in western countries interfere considerably with any health benefits derived of omega-3 fats. The reason for this is because both omega-3 and omega-6 compete equally for the rate-limiting enzymes. In order to properly observe these anti-tumor effects of omega-3s, there has to be a reduction in the consumption of omega-6s in the diet. In other words, the ratio of omega-3 to omega-6 has to be redressed before scientists can draw any concrete conclusions.
Resource:
Anticancer Effect of Fish Oil – a Fable or the Truth?
Neuwirthová J, Gál B, Smilek P, Urbánková P, Kostřica R.