Ramadan et diabète : attitudes des patients versus points de vue des médecins, religieux, et membres d’associations

Ramadan Fasting and NCDs-Example of the Diabetes

“…In a study highlighting the point of view of health professionals on the difficulties encountered during medical consultations during Ramadan, it was noted: treatment management (69.1%), glycaemic variations (52.1%), venous thrombosis (8.8%), weight gain (2.8%), changes in eating habits (42.9%) and food intake schedules (50.7%). The results of this study also showed that out of 1,975 diabetic patients, 924 of them did not know about the conditions for interruption of fasting whether T1DM or T2DM (53.0 vs. 46.4%; p = 0.2984) ( 13 ). In parallel, in another study highlighting the role of nutritional education in the management of T2DM during Ramadan, the researchers showed that 96% of the patients who received educational sessions were able to fast more than 21 days with a frequency of hypoglycemia 9 times lower compared to the control group ( 71 ).…”

“…A multicenter study was carried out in 13 cities in Algeria with 2,819 type 1 (T1DM) and type 2 (T2DM) diabetics showed that DMNF approached the topic of diet with their physician more than DMF (50.6 vs. 25.9%; P = 0.0000). Probably due to their diet during this month because, in fact, 94.6% of DMNF declared an increased consumption of carbohydrates foods, fat meals (91.6%), higher rations (90.5%) in the evening and heavy meals than usual (81.1%) ( 13 ). Throughout the month of Ramadan, there is an abundance and a variety of preparations on tables and can be sold in the market level, all rich in saturated fatty acids and carbohydrates (honey cakes, pastries, traditional dishes, etc.)…”

“…In parallel, in another study highlighting the role of nutritional education in the management of T2DM during Ramadan, the researchers showed that 96% of the patients who received educational sessions were able to fast more than 21 days with a frequency of hypoglycemia 9 times lower compared to the control group ( 71 ). The patient wishing to fast must also be followed nutritionally; pair a balanced and varied diet (coverage of recommended nutritional intakes and respect for food preferences), appropriate treatment (in molecule, dose and frequency of intake), added to glycaemic control, will allow the diabetic patient to better manage his/her disease ( 13 , 69 , 70 ). Pre-Ramadan education is crucial to fast safely during the holy month.…”

“…Education on fasting and diabetes management is also useful beyond Ramadan ( 72 ) having regard to the number of fasters after Ramadan [Example: CREED study ( 73 ) between 8 and 46%] and its important place in Muslim society. Admittedly, it is not an obligation, but an accomplishment of a pious act and an inner comfort that can be achieved throughout the year, but also the possibility and not the obligation (especially for the sick patients) to catch up for the unfasted days of the month of Ramadan ( 13 ).…”