Koo SI, et al. - In order to address the more relevant evidence concerning the role of linoleic acid (LA) [a n-6 essential fatty acid that forms the predominant proportion of dietary polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA)] in cardiovascular health, researchers performed this narrative review. Data obtained from clinical investigations and meta-analyses are indicative of improvement of cardiovascular risk (predominantly of the plasma lipid profile), as well as long-term glycaemic control and insulin resistance, observed in relation to high dietary consumptions or tissue levels of n-6 PUFA, and particularly LA. By most observational data, a decreased incidence of cardiovascular diseases (mainly coronary artery diseases) and of new onset metabolic syndrome or type 2 diabetes has been found in relation to elevated/increased dietary consumption or tissue levels of LA. Less clarity has been gained on the influences of LA (or n-6 PUFA) in other physio-pathological areas.