Endocrine Abstracts

Background and Aim: Ramadan-specific diabetes education (RDE) is fundamental to achieving safe fasting. During RDE sessions, healthcare providers should perform a risk assessment based on the patient’s medical status and his glycemic self-managing competence. This study aims to appraise the educational skills of diabetic patients intending to fast.

Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional descriptive study including 35 diabetic patients who attended the RDE workshops organized by our Endocrinology and Diabetology Department in April 2021. We evaluated the patient educational background by applying self-administered questionnaires.

Results: The mean age was 58.5±12 years, with a female predominance (73.9%). Most of the participants were receiving insulin therapy (56.5%). Some of them attended the workshops accompanied by a supportive family member (28.6%). Poor glycemic control was reported in 47.8%. The attendees had appropriate comprehension of the effects of their anti-diabetic agents in 60.9%. They featured solid dietary managing skills in 52.0%. Hypoglycemic events were more easily recognized and managed than hyperglycemic episodes (91.3% vs 56.5%). Barely 39.1% of patients could discern their specific glycemic targets. However, only 26.1% were performing regular self-monitoring of blood glucose (SMBG). Hypoglycemia, acute illness, and hyperglycemia were considered as indications to break the fast in 88.6%, 74.3%, and 28.6%, respectively.

Discussion: RDE programs should bring individualized knowledge on risk stratification, SMBG, diet, exercise, and physical activity for patients with diabetes. Healthcare providers are responsible for removing misconceptions and adjusting medications in patients considering fasting. Better recognition of circumstances requiring breaking the fast could avoid serious complications linked to food and water restriction during Ramadan. Several studies have demonstrated the clear benefits of these personalized programs on glycaemic control, weight loss, and the reduction of the risk of hypoglycemia, even in higher-risk individuals.

References: 1. Hassanein, Mohamed. "Ramadan focused diabetes education; a much needed approach." J Pak Med Assoc 65.5 Suppl 1 (2015): S76-S78.