CLINICAL

DIABETES

Muslims observe the holy month of Ramadan by abstaining from food , drink and oral medications from dawn to dusk .

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As the holy month of Ramadan draws closer , it is estimated that 40-50 million people living with diabetes worldwide will fast during Ramadan , which starts this year on 26 May 2017 , subject to the sighting of the new moon , to 24

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June 2017 . Given its significance in Islamic faith , not being able to fast due to a health condition can be devastating . Although the Qur ’ an specifically exempts people with a medical condition from the duty of fasting , many people living with diabetes still choose to fast despite the health risks .

“ Fasting presents significant challenges for people living with diabetes in terms of managing blood sugar levels , which is why it ’ s essential to consult with their doctor well in

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advance of the holy month of Ramadan to find out if they can fast and if so , plan a way to do it safely . The lack of food and water during the day , along with the heavy meals eaten before and after fasting at suhoor and ifthar can create serious health issues for people living with diabetes , as they are faced with major disruptions to their diet and daily routines . In general , fasting is very challenging for people living with diabetes , particularly patients with type 1 diabetes who are dependent on insulin . The role of the doctor in guiding Muslims living with diabetes to plan diligently and well in advance for a safe and healthy Ramadan is crucial ,” explains Dr Aneesa Sheik , Medical Director of Lilly South Africa .

HELPING DOCTORS TO MANAGE FASTING

Providing healthcare professionals with the right tools and resources , including time and personnel to educate patients and encourage them to discuss a treatment plan for fasting during Ramadan has been a key focus area for Lilly . The ‘ Lilly Diabetes Conversation Map ’ tool , specific to ‘ Managing Diabetes during Ramadan ’ was launched in 2013 and is used across the country and beyond . The Lilly Diabetes Conversation Map tool was created by Healthy Interactions and has been used in more than 40 countries and translated into more than thirty languages . It helps doctors and nurses guide their patients on how to manage diabetes during the month of Ramadan , understand myths and facts about diabetes , the major complications to watch out for during fasting .

EDUCATION AND SUPPORT ARE FUNDAMENTAL

In the absence of a well-thought through approach to support patients throughout complex lifestyle processes such as Ramadan and fasting , doctors may experience challenges in ensuring that adequate education and patient preparation takes place well in advance , as well as in individualising treatment . Patients with concomitant conditions and medications also tend to present greater complexity , and therefore require significant and comprehensive education and support . In response , Lilly has created easily understandable and highly impactful healthcare provider and patient support material , by diabetes educators . For more information call 011-510-9300 .

References available on request .

30 MAY 2017 | MEDICAL CHRONICLE