· There
are around 1.6 billion Muslims live across the world.
· Among
them, 90 million Muslims are affected by diabetes.
· More
than 50 million diabetic Muslims undergo month-long fasting during Ramadan. All
of them should be prepared at least a month before, to avoid complications.
· Risks
associated with fasting in diabetes, include
Ø Hypoglycemia
Ø Hyperglycemia
Ø Diabetic
ketoacidosis
Ø Hypovolemia
Ø Thrombosis
· Strategies
to Enhance the Safety of Ramadan Fasting in Diabetic Patients, include
Ø Ramadan
focused diabetes education
Ø Medical
assessment before Ramadan
Ø Physician-recommended
modifications in their medication protocol
Ø Adherence
to a healthy diet
Ø Physical
activity
Ø Blood
glucose monitoring
· Recommendations
to Prevent the Risk of Adverse Events, include
Ø Consult
healthcare providers at least one month prior to Ramadan
Ø Avoid
skipping of Sahur
Ø Avoid
large meals at Iftar and Sahur
Ø Avoid
strenuous physical exercise during fasting hours
Ø Frequent
SMBG, and regular recording of blood glucose readings
· Role
of General practitioners
Ø PHC
Physicians are recommended to attend workshops, conferences, and meetings in
order to receive training on the effective and safe management of diabetes
during Ramadan
· Role
of Pharmacists
Ø Hospital
and community pharmacists needed to receive training on diabetes management
during Ramadan
Ø CPE
programs on the management of diabetes during Ramadan should target practicing
pharmacists
