(April 23, 2009 - Insidermedicine) From San Diego - According to a study in Alcoholism: Clinical & Experimental Research, binge drinking may hinder brain function in teenagers. In a study of 28 adolescents, researchers found that those who reported binge drinking had lower measures of fiber coherence in the white matter of their brains than those who did not drink. White matter is fundamental to the relay of information in the brain.

From Seattle - According to research in the journal Neurology, heavy use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) may increase the risk of dementia in the elderly. In a study of over 2,700 adults aged 65 and older, those who took 500 or more standard daily doses over 2 years were 66% more likely to develop dementia. These findings contradict those reported in studies of younger patients.

And finally, back to San Diego - According to research presented to the American Society of Breast Surgeons, self-examination remains an important method for detecting breast cancer in high-risk women. In a study of nearly 150 women, researchers found that among those who developed a tumor, breast self-exam was the detection method in 71% of cases. Meanwhile, 24% were found with mammography.

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