Dr. Yehudit

Afeka Researcher Secures Prestigious Grant to Explore Link Between Diabetes Markers and Brain Disorders

Dr. Yehudit Apershein from Afeka College of Engineering has secured a research grant from the Ministry of Innovation, Science and Technology, in collaboration with Barzilai Medical Center, for a groundbreaking retrospective study aimed at uncovering links between metabolic health and neurological diseases.

The study will examine whether there is a correlation between glycated hemoglobin levels (HbA1c) and the use of GLP-1-based drug treatments, and the incidence of five major brain disorders: dementia, stroke, epilepsy, Parkinson's disease, and depression.

Using a large dataset from Barzilai’s ‘Kineret’ database, the research will both validate existing evidence and uncover new associations. A key goal is to develop a predictive model that could forecast the risk of these brain diseases based on blood sugar markers—potentially shaping future public health strategies and preventive care.
This study not only bridges metabolic and neurological health but also holds promise for significant impact on early detection and intervention in some of the most burdensome brain diseases.