Coronary artery disease and diabetes - Management during Ramadan

Idris Ahmed Khan1

  • 1Department of Interventional Cardiology, Bombay Hospital, Indore, India.

Insights

Adult Muslims with stable coronary artery disease can safely fast during Ramadan. While metabolic changes occur, Ramadan fasting does not significantly increase acute coronary events for most patients.

Area of Science:

  • Cardiology
  • Islamic Studies
  • Public Health

Background:

  • Ramadan fasting is a religious obligation for adult Muslims worldwide.
  • Individuals with medical conditions, including coronary heart disease, are often exempt but may wish to fast.
  • Managing fasting patients with coronary artery disease presents challenges for physicians.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To systematically review the literature on Ramadan fasting in patients with coronary artery disease.
  • To provide guidance for physicians managing these patients during the fasting month.

Main Methods:

  • A systematic review of Medline English literature was conducted.
  • The search covered publications from January 1982 to December 2014.

Main Results:

  • Ramadan fasting leads to metabolic changes but not a significant increase in acute coronary events.
  • Most adults with stable coronary artery disease can fast without major complications.
  • Patients with unstable coronary artery disease or recent revascularization should avoid fasting.

Conclusions:

  • Physicians must regularly monitor patients who fast during Ramadan.
  • Dosage adjustments for medications are often necessary for fasting patients with coronary artery disease.

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