Omega-3 Index: 20 years of research
The concept of the Omega-3 Index was first introduced by Dr. William S. Harris and Dr. Clemens von Schacky in their groundbreaking 2004 paper. This index measures the percentage of EPA and DHA, essential omega-3 fatty acids, in the red blood cell membranes. Their pioneering research established the Omega-3 Index as a significant predictor of heart disease risk, proposing that higher levels of these fatty acids in blood cells were associated with a reduced risk of heart-related deaths.
Today, the Omega-3 Index has evolved beyond its initial cardiovascular focus and is recognised for its broader implications in overall health. The index is widely used in clinical settings and research.