Cachexia in cancer and other chronic diseases is characterized by a lack of a normal anabolic response to the provision of apparently adequate nutrition. Weight loss/wasting and reduced quality of life occur as a consequence. A persistent proinflammatory cytokine response to illness and a catabolic hormonal environment have been associated with this state. Omega-3 fatty acids and fish oil have been suggested as possible beneficial therapies, with initial promising evidence, particularly in patients with pancreatic cancer (1;2;3). However, two recent randomized trials fail to demonstrate significant benefits of supplementation with omega-3 fatty acids for this indication.

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