(June 15, 2009 - Insidermedicine) From Washington - According to research presented to The Endocrine Society, bariatric surgery may increase fracture risk. In a study of nearly 100 patients, researchers found that bariatric surgery doubled the risk of bone fracture. The hands and feet of patients were particularly susceptible, with fractures occurring at rates three to four times greater than predicted.

From Seattle - According to research presented to the Associated Professional Sleep Societies, insomnia is linked to premature death in men. In a study of over 1,700 people followed for over 10 years, researchers found that men with insomnia and short sleep duration were nearly 5 times more likely to die than those who had normal sleep. Short sleep duration was defined as less than six hours of sleep per night.

And finally, from Maryland - According to research in the Journal of Studies on Alcohol and Drugs, despite prevention programs, alcohol abuse has increased among college students. Between 1999 and 2005, binge drinking among those aged 18-24 rose from 41.7% to 44.7%, while drunk driving increased from 26.5% to 28.9%. There was also a small increase in deaths from injuries related to alcohol consumption.

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