Embracing Ramadan Fasting with Diabetes Support
Anwar Deen, a 66-year-old from Pakistan now residing in Australia for almost twenty years, has refrained from fasting during Ramadan due to medical advice.
This year, despite having type 2 diabetes, Anwar is determined to partake in the month-long religious practice of abstaining from eating, drinking, and medication from dawn to sunset, aligning with the traditions of Muslims worldwide.
While Muslims typically fast throughout daylight hours for the entire month of Ramadan, Anwar plans to observe fasting every Friday, a sacred day in Islam, as a demonstration of her devotion.
Attending the pioneering Diabetes Ramadan Preparation Clinic in Logan, south of Brisbane, Anwar is diligently preparing to observe fasting safely, recognizing it as one of the fundamental pillars of Islam.
Notably, the Queensland Health clinic stands as a trailblazer in Australia, offering crucial support to Muslim individuals like Anwar navigating the intersection of Ramadan fasting and diabetes management.
Residing in Logan Central, where the prevalence of diabetes is notably higher than the Queensland average, Anwar is among the 13,000 Muslim residents in the region, many of whom grapple with diabetes.
Anwar Deen is making samosas in her Logan Central unit’s kitchen. (ABC News: Janelle Miles)
The Joy of Fasting: A Personal Experience
Anwar, who has been observing Ramadan fasting traditions in Pakistan for years, found herself in a dilemma upon moving to Australia when her doctor advised against fasting. Reluctantly, she followed the medical advice.
Despite her initial reservations, Anwar expressed her discontent with not fasting, stating, “For me, no fasting, I am not happy.” She shared her joy at preparing a delicious batch of potato samosas, a traditional dish consumed to break the fast at sunset during Ramadan, reaffirming, “This Ramadan, I am fasting, I am happy.”
Anwar’s stepdaughter, Bebe Ahmad, highlighted the spiritual significance of fasting, describing it as a means of demonstrating empathy towards those less fortunate. She emphasized the importance of understanding the struggles of the underprivileged who endure hunger and thirst, contrasting it with the privilege of being able to break the fast later.
Imam Akram Buksh, the Director of the Slacks Creek Mosque, shed light on a common query posed to Islamic religious leaders during Ramadan: “Am I able to fast?”
Ramadan fasting diabetes support
**Meet Imam Akram Buksh, the Director of Slacks Creek Mosque**
Imam Akram Buksh, overseeing the operations at Slacks Creek Mosque, emphasizes the importance of health during Ramadan fasting. According to him, the Quran provides clear guidance that individuals who are unwell or have health issues should refrain from fasting. He advises seeking professional advice tailored to one’s specific health condition. If medical professionals recommend against fasting due to health concerns, it is crucial to adhere to their guidance. However, if adjustments can be made to medication or other factors to ensure safe fasting, then it may be permissible to fast.
“Ramadan fasting diabetes support”, Imam Akram Buksh stresses the significance of prioritizing health and seeking expert advice when navigating the challenges of fasting during Ramadan.
Breaking New Ground in Australia
Dr. Kathryn Berkman, the clinical lead at the Ramadan preparation clinic and an endocrinologist, expressed optimism about the possibility of enabling nearly all diabetic patients to safely observe fasting during the holy month with adequate preparation.
Despite this positive outlook, Dr. Berkman acknowledged that fasting could still present risks under specific circumstances.
She highlighted the case of patients with unstable or unpredictable blood sugar control as an example.
Referring to a patient named Anwar, she mentioned that Anwar’s diabetes is well-managed, and she is confident that with appropriate adjustments to her medications, fasting can be done safely.
At the Diabetes Ramadan Preparation Clinic in Logan, endocrinologist Dr. Kathryn Berkman collaborates with Anwar Deen. Dr. Berkman highlighted the significance of the Ramadan clinic, a part of Logan Endocrine and Diabetes Services (LEADS), in offering support to patients in a culturally diverse city. This year, the clinic was established to cater to individuals observing Ramadan fasting, providing specialized diabetes support. Dr. Berkman emphasized that this clinic is the first of its kind in Australia, dedicated to delivering this essential service during the holy month.
Clinic Offering Support for Ramadan Fasting and Diabetes in Queensland
According to Gaurav Puri, the clinical director at LEADS, the Ramadan clinic was initially established to cater to the Logan area. However, individuals in various parts of Queensland can also schedule telemedicine appointments for assistance.
“Ideally, we aim to meet with them before the commencement of the fasting period to assess their current treatment and strategize for a successful fasting period,” Dr. Puri explained.
**Optimizing Diabetes Support During Ramadan Fasting**
**Meet Dr. Gaurav Puri, Leading Endocrinologist**
Dr. Gaurav Puri, a prominent endocrinologist, serves as the clinical director at the esteemed Logan Endocrine and Diabetes Services. With a commitment to patient care, Dr. Puri emphasizes the importance of continuous monitoring and assistance during Ramadan fasting for individuals with diabetes. This support is provided through various means such as face-to-face clinics, phone consultations, and telehealth services.
**Tailoring Healthcare to Patients’ Lifestyles**
Understanding the significance of aligning healthcare with patients’ lifestyles, Dr. Puri highlights the need to customize treatment plans to suit individual needs. By adapting healthcare practices to accommodate the unique circumstances of each patient, the team at Logan Endocrine and Diabetes Services ensures optimal care delivery.
**Culturally Appropriate Care in Queensland**
Queensland Health Minister Shannon Fentiman, representing the Waterford electorate which includes a significant portion of Logan, emphasizes the importance of culturally sensitive healthcare. By considering patients’ spiritual well-being alongside their physical health, hospitals aim to provide comprehensive and inclusive care to all individuals, especially during significant events like Ramadan.
Empowering the Muslim Community
Ms. Fentiman applauds the initiative taken by Logan in providing specialized healthcare advice to members of the Muslim faith during Ramadan. This proactive approach ensures that individuals observing Ramadan receive the best possible support and guidance for their health and well-being.
Ramadan Fasting and Diabetes Management
Ramadan, the ninth month of the Islamic calendar, marks a period of fasting observed by Muslims worldwide. Scheduled to commence on March 10 with the sighting of the new crescent moon, fasting will begin at dawn on March 11 and conclude at sundown on April 9. Individuals with diabetes seeking support during Ramadan can seek a referral to the Logan clinic from their general practitioner.
Inclusive Community Initiatives
Celebrating cultural diversity and inclusivity, Logan sets an example for providing specialized healthcare services tailored to the needs of diverse communities. By prioritizing patient-centered care and proactive support, Logan leads the way in promoting holistic well-being for all individuals, especially during significant cultural observances like Ramadan.
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