Bridging faith and health

The Challenge

Many Muslims with diabetes face the challenge of balancing their faith with their health during the holy month of Ramadan, which involves daily fasting. Dr. Pathan observed a significant number of patients expressing a desire to fast despite having diabetes.

The Solution

Prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, to address this complex issue, Dr. Pathan collaborated with a multidisciplinary team - Diabetic dietician Sabia Begum, the diabetic specialist nurses and The local Hospital imam. Together, they developed a comprehensive education program to support patients in making informed decisions about fasting.

The two-day education program, held at Homerton’s Diabetes Centre, covered:

• Understanding Diabetes and Fasting: Participants learned about the physiological effects of fasting on people with diabetes and how to manage their condition safely during this period.

• Safe Fasting Practices: Practical advice was provided on how to fast without compromising health, including dietary adjustments and medication management.

• When Fasting is Not Safe: The program emphasised the importance of individual health assessments and highlighted situations where fasting might be contraindicated.

• Religious Perspective: The Imam offered guidance on Islamic teachings related to health and fasting, emphasising that individuals with uncontrolled diabetes or underlying health conditions should prioritise their well-being.

Impact

This innovative approach, combining medical expertise, nursing care, and religious guidance, was successfully implemented for several years. On one occasion the programme was delivered in the local mosque setting, demonstrating its potential for broader community impact.

By providing culturally sensitive and accessible education, the initiative empowered individuals with diabetes to make informed decisions about fasting while prioritising their health.

This case study demonstrates the power of a health literacy approach in addressing the unique needs of diverse populations, which considers a holistic approach. By combining medical knowledge with cultural understanding, healthcare providers can create impactful interventions that promote health equity.