DIABETES AND RAMADAN FASTING

It is estimated that there are 1.1-1.5 billion Muslims worldwide, and prevalence of diabetes is approximately 4.6%. Many patients with diabetes insist on fasting during Ramadan, thereby creates a medical challenge for themselves and their physicians. These patients are susceptible to diabetic complications such as hypoglycemia and hyperglycemia. It is therefore important that medical professionals be aware of potential risks that may be associated with fasting during Ramadan. Patients who insist on Ramadan fasting be assessed before Ramadan and receive appropriate education and instructions related to physical activity, meal planning, glucose monitoring, and dosage and timing of medications. In this article, management of diabetes in Ramadan is discussed.