Dr Ahmed Hussein, from the Blacktown Hospital Department of Endocrinology and Diabetes, recently spoke at a community information session at Blacktown Library. He was joined by the Grand Mufti of Australia, Dr Ibrahim Abu Mohamed, the most senior Islamic cleric in Australia, who called on people with diabetes, women who are pregnant or anyone who has a pre-existing condition to avoid fasting during Ramadan, which will be observed until 24 June 2017.
Dr Hussein said that fasting has a direct effect on diabetes patients.“As soon as a diabetic chooses to fast, the body will react.
“What we need to educate people is how to do this safely, and in some cases why it is OK not to fast”, said Dr Hussein.
During the session, Dr Hussein explained the dangers of fasting with diabetes or while pregnant, including how to monitor insulin levels to avoid becoming hyperglycaemic or hypoglycaemic.
“Many people will feel shame if they’re not fasting, despite having major complications with their health,’’ Dr Hussein said.
“This is why it is so important to have the Grand Mufti instruct that this is part of Islamic regulation. Patients who are really ill should not fast, and will not be any different to those that do.”
