Training School on Neurocognitive Assessment in Kidney Disease
Altınbaş University Gayrettepe Campus hosted an important training program titled “Neurocognitive Assessment Method in Kidney Diseases: Similarities and Differences” hosted an important training program.
The Gayrettepe Campus of Altınbaş University in Istanbul recently hosted an impactful training school titled "Methodology for Neurocognitive Assessment in Patients with Kidney Diseases: Similarities & Differences" on September 5-6, 2024. The event, organized by Gaye Hafez, Head of the Pharmacology Department at Altınbaş University, attracted 33 participants from around Europe, including Italy, France, Switzerland, Serbia, the United Kingdom, Bosnia-Herzegovina, Sweden, the Czech Republic, the Netherlands, Romania, Türkiye and the USA. This diverse group of experts, researchers, and clinicians gathered to explore and advance the understanding of mild cognitive impairment (MCI) in chronic kidney disease (CKD). Giving information about the training program, Gaye Hafez said, “The aim of these experts, researchers and clinicians from different disciplines was to understand the causes of cognitive impairment in chronic kidney disease (CKD) and to improve patient care and treatment methods.”
The relationship between CKD and cognitive impairment was highlighted
The training program included comprehensive theoretical content and practical applications designed to address the relationship between chronic kidney disease and cognitive impairment. Sessions were led by recognized experts in nephrology, neurology, geriatrics, pharmacoepidemiology and pharmacology. The two-day program also included the development of a multidisciplinary treatment plan for a hypothetical patient led by Marion Pepin.
The organization was realized with the significant contributions of Gaye Hafez, Yasemin Yücel 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 impairment
Emphasizing that there is an important link between chronic kidney disease (CKD) and cognitive impairment, Gaye Hafez stated that the disease can lead to problems such as memory loss and difficulties in concentration and attention and that both conditions can worsen each other. She mentioned that uremic toxins, high blood pressure and other comorbidities associated with CKD can negatively affect brain function. She also underlined that cognitive problems in CKD patients also affect daily life, making it difficult to participate in daily activities. Stating that researchers are working on diagnosis and treatment to better understand these problems, Dr Hafez said “this training in Istanbul aimed to focus on the relationship between kidney health and cognitive function and to improve patient care.”
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