Muslim patients in Ramadan: A review for primary care physicians

Abstract

Fasting Ramadan, in which Muslims abstain from specific habits and behaviors from dawn to sunset, is one of the five Pillars of Islam. While there are several exemptions from fasting, many Muslim patients with acute or chronic medical conditions still choose to fast, which may adversely affect their health if not addressed properly. Some patients may not be well educated about the effects of some medical treatments and procedures on the validity of their fast, which can unnecessarily lead to suboptimal management of their conditions or treatment nonadherence. Since spirituality, religiosity, and personal beliefs affect patients' health behaviors and adherence to treatments, health-care providers need to learn how fasting Ramadan can affect the health of their Muslim patients, especially those with chronic medical conditions, and how to help them achieve safe fasting. This article aims to provide an overview of the main topics that primary care physicians may need to know in order to improve their cultural competence when caring for their fasting Muslim patients.

Barley Based Bread may Suppress the Appetite in Individuals who Practice Islamic Fasting

“…Independentsamples t-test was applied for homogeneity of general characteristics, anthropometric measurements, and dietary intakes in two groups. We used paired samples t-test to assess the effects of barely bread and wheat 1 Body mass index The results showed that rate of hunger before Iftar in the barley bread group is significantly lower than wheat bread group (P value<0.001).…”

“…Fasting is one of the main worships of Islam which healthy able Muslims abstain from drinking, eating, medications and smoking during the day [1]. Fasting begins after Sahur, a meal before sunrise, and is completed after Iftar, another meal after sunset which usually begins with consuming dates or sweetened water and followed by other foods [2].…”

Role of 24-hour Helpline Service in the Management of Diabetes During the Holy Month of Ramadan

“…Most Muslims are passionate about fasting during this month, although sick people are exempted. However, many diabetics may not perceive themselves as sick and a high proportion fasts [5][6]. A large epidemiology study of Muslims with diabetes in 13 Islamic countries -the Epidemiology of Diabetes and Ramadan (EPIDAR) study -showed 43% of patients with type 1 and 79% of those with type 2 diabetes fasting during Ramadan [7].…”

Perception Of Oral Hygiene Practices And Dental Treatment Permissible During Fasting Amongst Dental Patients: A Cross-Sectional Study In Pakistan

“…According to Islamic calendar (Hijra), each year Ramadan comes about 10 days earlier thus, occurring at various times in different seasons in a 33-year cycle. 1 One of the fundamentals of fasting is totally refraining oneself from consuming any food or drink during the fasting hours. Although traditions may vary according to geographical location, customs are generally influenced by religion specially in regions like middle east and southeast Asia.…”