(November 26, 2008 - Insidermedicine) From Boston - According to research in the Journal of the American Medical Association, genes that raise the risk of heart disease in the general population carry a much greater risk for those with diabetes. In a study of over 1,200 people, researchers found that those with two copies of the 9p21 gene variation but normal blood sugar had twice the risk for coronary artery disease. Meanwhile, diabetics with two copies of the gene had a 4 times greater risk.

From Baltimore - In those with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, inhaled corticosteroids may increase the risk of pneumonia. In a study of over 14,000 patients, researchers from Johns Hopkins found that those who used corticosteroids for at least 6 months were 34% more likely to develop pneumonia than those who received placebo or non-steroid treatment. The researchers suggest that this increased risk must be weighed against the benefits of inhaled corticosteroids.

And finally, from North Carolina - Women are less likely than men to receive a liver transplant. In a study of over 45,000 patients waiting for liver transplants, Duke University researchers found that women were 30% more likely to die or become too ill for transplant than men. The researchers suggest that women's smaller average size may play a role, as livers from large donors cannot necessarily be given to small recipients, and children have first priority on smaller livers.

For Insidermedicine in 60, I'm Allison Chow.