(June 29, 2009 - Insidermedicine) From Toronto - According to research in The Lancet, the harms of alcohol outweigh the benefits. By analyzing dozens of studies on the link between alcohol and early death and disability, researchers concluded that nearly 4% of global mortality can be attributed to drinking. While light to moderate drinking can be beneficial for cardiovascular disease, the researchers note that this benefit is restricted to older people.

From Washington - According to research in the Journal of the National Cancer Institute, a high-fat diet may be linked to pancreatic cancer. In a study of over 500,000 people, researchers found that those who consumed large amounts of saturated fat were 36% more likely to be diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. The relationship was particularly strong for red meat and dairy products.

And finally, from Dallas - According to research presented to the American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery, old age does not increase the risks of bariatric surgery. In a study of over 1,400 patients, researchers found that those aged 65 and older lost just as much weight as younger patients and had similar rates of readmission and mortality, despite a greater comorbidity burden.

For Insidermedicine in 60, I'm Dr. Kelly Schweitzer.