(January 13, 2009 - Insidermedicine) From Boston - According to research in the Archives of Internal Medicine, the urinary excretion ratio of sodium to potassium may predict heart disease risk. In a study of nearly 3,000 people, researchers found that, compared with a normal ratio, the highest sodium-potassium ratios indicated a 50% increased risk of cardiovascular disease. That is, too much sodium and too little potassium may increase the risk of stroke, heart attack and other cardiovascular events.

From Washington - According to research in the journal Neurology, hormone therapy has been linked to faster loss of brain tissue in older women. In a study of over 1,400 women over the age of 70, researchers found that those undergoing hormone replacement therapy experienced faster loss of brain tissue in areas responsible for thinking and memory. Typically, HRT is not recommended for women over the age of 65.

And finally, from Paris - According to research in the Archives of Internal Medicine, cold weather can increase blood pressure in older adults. In a study of 8,800 patients aged 65 and older, researchers found that systolic blood pressure rose an average of 5 mm Hg as temperatures dropped from summer to winter, and hypertension rates rose from 24% to 33%. These findings may help explain seasonal variation in rates of stroke, blood vessel rupture, and aneurysm.

For Insidermedicine in 60, I'm Dr. Susan Sharma.