Global Surveillance of trans-Fatty Acids

Prev Chronic Dis. 2019 Oct 31:16:E147. doi: 10.5888/pcd16.190121.

Abstract

Trans-fatty acid (TFA) intake can increase the risk of coronary heart disease (CHD) morbidity and mortality and all-cause mortality. Industrially produced TFAs and ruminant TFAs are the major sources in foods. TFA intake and TFA-attributed CHD mortality vary widely worldwide. Excessive TFA intake is a health threat in high-income countries; however, it is also a threat in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). Data on TFA intake are scarce in many LMICs and an urgent need exists to monitor TFAs globally. We reviewed global TFA intake and TFA-attributed CHD mortality and current progress toward policy or regulation on elimination of industrially produced TFAs in foods worldwide. Human biological tissues can be used as biomarkers of TFAs because they reflect actual intake from various foods. Measuring blood TFA levels is a direct and reliable method to quantify TFA intake.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Chronic Disease / mortality
  • Coronary Disease / mortality*
  • Global Health
  • Health Policy
  • Humans
  • Risk Factors
  • Trans Fatty Acids / administration & dosage
  • Trans Fatty Acids / adverse effects*
  • Trans Fatty Acids / blood

Substances

  • Trans Fatty Acids