Abstract
AIM: To assess the awareness level and care of people with diabetes related to Ramadan fasting across the country. METHODOLOGY: This cross-sectional survey was conducted by Baqai Institute of Diabetology and Endocrinology, between November 2016 to March 2017, using convenient sampling. The physicians involved in the care of people with diabetes were invited to participate. A preformed validated questionnaire was used to conduct face to face interview on one to one basis. RESULTS: Altogether 2187 people with diabetes were enrolled. Knowledge related to Ramadan fasting was poor (35.64%), misconceptions were common (57.02%), and unsafe practices (55.62%) were highly prevalent. One third (31.9%) of the subjects did not receive pre-Ramadan education while medications adjustments were not made in nearly half of the study population. CONCLUSION: In this cross-sectional survey, we observed lack of awareness, misconceptions and unsafe practices among fasting people with diabetes across the country. Large scale awareness campaign is needed as comprehensive care is not widely available.