Abstract
Fasting Ramadan, in which Muslims abstain from specific habits and behaviors from
dawn to sunset, is one of the five Pillars of Islam. While there are several exemptions
from fasting, many Muslim patients with acute or chronic medical conditions still
choose to fast, which may adversely affect their health if not addressed properly.
Some patients may not be well educated about the effects of some medical treatments
and procedures on the validity of their fast, which can unnecessarily lead to suboptimal
management of their conditions or treatment nonadherence. Since spirituality, religiosity,
and personal beliefs affect patients' health behaviors and adherence to treatments,
health-care providers need to learn how fasting Ramadan can affect the health of their
Muslim patients, especially those with chronic medical conditions, and how to help
them achieve safe fasting. This article aims to provide an overview of the main topics
that primary care physicians may need to know in order to improve their cultural competence
when caring for their fasting Muslim patients.
Keywords
Fasting - Muslim patients - primary care - Ramadan