EPA Supplementation May Improve Survival in Cancer Patients
A study of 418 patients found that daily EPA could lower the hazard of death after liver metastasis surgery.
Updated on Oct. 25, 2026 in Cancer
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A Phase III clinical trial involving 418 patients suggests that daily eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) supplementation may significantly improve five-year overall survival rates in individuals undergoing surgery for liver metastasis from colorectal cancer. While survival outcomes were positive, the study found no significant difference in progression-free survival between the treatment and placebo groups.
Why it matters
This study provides new clinical evidence for using high-dose EPA as a supplemental therapy in colorectal cancer care, confirming findings from earlier, smaller research. For patients managing liver metastasis, these results offer a potential avenue for improving long-term outcomes without a significant increase in adverse side effects like bleeding.
In this Phase III trial of 418 participants, researchers observed a 62.0% five-year overall survival rate with daily EPA compared to 45.1% for those receiving a placebo. While the hazard ratio for death was 0.68, the study found no significant difference in progression-free survival.
The players
Mark A. Hull
A researcher based in Leeds, United Kingdom, who leads studies on the role of eicosapentaenoic acid in colorectal cancer treatment.
ESMO Congress
An annual international medical conference focused on the latest developments in oncology and cancer research.
The details
Patients in the treatment group received 4 grams of pure eicosapentaenoic acid daily, while the control group received mineral oil capsules. Therapy began at least one day prior to liver metastasis resection surgery and continued for two to four years. The intervention aims to leverage the anti-cancer properties observed in earlier human observational studies and preclinical models to improve patient outcomes following surgery.
Timeline
October 2026: Results of the EMT2 trial were presented at the ESMO Congress.
Health Landscape
The EMT2 trial represents a major effort to validate previous, smaller-scale findings regarding the use of omega-3 fatty acids in oncology. It marks a significant development in testing whether nutritional supplementation can provide a survival advantage alongside standard surgical care.
Patients currently managing colorectal cancer with liver metastasis should discuss these findings with their oncologist to determine if dietary or supplemental interventions are appropriate for their specific case. It is vital to consult a physician before starting any high-dose supplementation, as they can assess safety and potential interactions with other standard treatments.
The takeaway
While the EPA supplementation did not delay cancer progression, the increase in five-year survival suggests a potential clinical benefit for this patient group. Patients and their care teams should monitor future clinical updates to see how these results integrate into standard post-surgical recovery protocols.
Further reading
For more information on current treatment standards and ongoing research, explore our Cancer section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Oncodaily - Oncology News, Insights, Stories.
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Should doctors prioritize overall survival data if a trial misses its primary progression-free survival target?
