Glycaemic Trend During Ramadan in Fasting Diabetic Subjects: A Study from Pakistan

Abstract

The aim of this questionnaire based survey was to assess the glycaemic control care and management of our fasting diabetic subjects. This retrospective study was carried out at Baqai Institute of Diabetology and Endocrinology, its affiliated centers and Memon Diabetic Centre of Karachi. Data was collected by a questionnaire including socio-demographic data, duration of diabetes, life style, diet and treatment during and preceding Ramadan of year 2004. All Known diabetic Muslim subjects except children below 10 years were included. The subjects were asked if they had observed any of the hypoglycemic or hyperglycemic symptoms. The major severity of the symptoms was assessed depending upon the assistance needed. The plasma glucose level during these episodes was recorded where it was available. During the month of Ramadan 327 out of 453 subjects (72.5%) fasted. Mean age of subjects was 50.3 +/- 12.6 years. Average duration of diabetes was 9.3 +/- 7.3 years. Majority of the subjects (96.3%) fasted with type 2 diabetes while only 3.7% fasted with type I diabetes. Subjects fasted for an average of 25 days. Overall prevalence of hypoglycemia and hyperglycemia was 21.7 and 19.8%, respectively. Only 4.0% had major hypoglycemic episodes, while 8% had major hyperglycemic episodes. The present study suggests that all diabetic subjects who intend to fast should be counseled before Ramadan about change in medication timings and dose, dietary changes and pattern of physical activity and about role of self-monitoring of blood glucose especially during acute symptoms.

The prevalence of glucose metabolism disturbances in Chinese Muslims and possible risk factors: a study from northwest China

“…Most of the studies have focused on glycemic trends during Ramadan in fasting subjects with DM or the treatment of DM (9,10). Few studies regarding the prevalence of DM and PDM or risk factors in the Muslim population have been reported, especially comparisons with other nonMuslims in the same geographic areas (11,12).…”

Effects of Ramadan Fasting on Daily Life and Metabolic Condition in Patients with Type 2 Diabetes

“…5 A study from Pakistan by Ahmadani et al reported the prevalence of fasting in type 2 diabetes patients as 96.3% and the mean duration of fasting was 25 days. 4 In contrary to previous studies, none of these patients were informed about Ramadan fasting and diabetes. 4 During Ramadan, people have only two meals at dawn and sunset, usually one large meal after sunset and one lighter meal before dawn.…”

“…4 In contrary to previous studies, none of these patients were informed about Ramadan fasting and diabetes. 4 During Ramadan, people have only two meals at dawn and sunset, usually one large meal after sunset and one lighter meal before dawn. 2,9,14 In addition, patients have to wake up before dawn to prepare and have a meal.…”

“…8 Finally, most of the patients with type 2 diabetes insist on fasting despite the recommendations of health professionals. [3][4][5] Indeed, concerns are raised with regards to the safety of fasting in diabetic patients. 3 Therefore, the studies investigating the effects of Ramadan fasting in patients with diabetes are important.…”

“…A An na ah ht ta ar r K Ke el li im me el le er r: : Diabetes mellitus, 4,5 Type 2 diabetes has become a global epidemic,and Islamic population, which constitute about 23% of the world population in 1999, is increasing. 6,7 The prevalence of diabetes is similar in countries with large Muslim populations and in Western countries, and it increases by 10% per year as a result of urbanization and socioeconomic development.…”