Effects of Ramadan fasting on moderate to severe chronic kidney disease. A prospective observational study

Area of Science:

• Nephrology
• Public Health
• Endocrinology

Background:

• Chronic kidney disease (CKD) affects millions globally, requiring careful management.
• Ramadan fasting is a religious practice involving daily fasting from dawn to sunset.
• The impact of Ramadan fasting on renal function in CKD patients, particularly during summer, requires investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To examine the effect of Ramadan fasting on worsening of renal function (WRF) in patients with stage 3 or higher CKD.
• To identify factors associated with WRF in this patient population.

Main Methods:

• A single-arm prospective observational study.
• Included 65 patients with stage 3 or higher CKD.
• WRF defined as a serum creatinine increase of ≥0.3 mg/dL from baseline during or within 3 months post-Ramadan.

Main Results:

• 33% of patients developed WRF.
• Advanced CKD stage, higher systolic blood pressure, and younger age were independently associated with WRF.
• No association found between WRF and CKD cause, diuretic use, renin-angiotensin blocker use, gender, or smoking status.

Conclusions:

• Ramadan fasting during summer months is associated with worsening renal function in patients with stage 3 or higher CKD.
• Clinicians should counsel CKD patients on the potential renal risks associated with Ramadan fasting.