The event, focusing on the relationship between kidney health and cognitive function and methods to improve patient care, was organized by Gaye Hafez, Head of the Department of Pharmacology. The program brought together 33 participants from Italy, France, Switzerland, Serbia, the United Kingdom, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Sweden, the Czech Republic, the Netherlands, Romania, Turkey, and the United States. Providing information about the training program, Gaye Hafez stated, “The aim of these experts, researchers, and clinicians from various disciplines was to understand the causes of cognitive impairment in chronic kidney disease (CKD) and to develop methods for patient care and treatment.”

Highlighting the Connection Between CKD and Cognitive Impairment

 The training program included both comprehensive theoretical content and practical applications designed to address the relationship between chronic kidney disease and cognitive impairment. The sessions were led by renowned experts in the fields of nephrology, neurology, geriatrics, pharmacoepidemiology, and pharmacology. During the two-day program, a multidisciplinary treatment plan was also developed for a hypothetical patient, managed by Marion Pepin.

The organization was carried out with significant contributions from Gaye Hafez, along with Yasemin Yücel Yücel, Gizem Yeğen from the Faculty of Pharmacy, and pharmacy students İrem Dilara Duman, Merve Turan, Doğa Bulut, and İlayda Hayal Ekşi.

CKD Leads to Cognitive Impaırment

Gaye Hafez emphasized the significant connection between chronic kidney disease (CKD) and cognitive impairment, explaining that the disease can lead to issues such as memory loss and attention deficits, with both conditions exacerbating each other. She pointed out that the accumulation of toxins associated with CKD, high blood pressure, and other comorbidities can negatively affect brain function. Furthermore, she highlighted that cognitive issues in CKD patients also impact daily life, making it more challenging to participate in everyday activities. Dr. Hafez noted that researchers are working on diagnosis and treatment to better understand these issues. She shared that the goal of the training held in Istanbul was to focus on the relationship between kidney health and cognitive function while aiming to improve patient care.

For more information about the CONNECT Action and studies, visit: www.connectcost.eu