Sanofi collaborated with the Baqai Institute of Diabetes & Endocrinology (BIDE) and Karachi Press Club (KPC) shared much-needed guidance on the management of diabetes during the holy month of Ramazan. An informative seminar was conducted at the Ibrahim Jalees Hall of KPC where leading Professor Abdul Basit and Professor Muhammad Yakoob Ahmedani presented in detail about management guidelines.
Diabetes is increasing at an alarming rate in Pakistan. According to the International Diabetes Federation (IDF) Diabetes Atlas (7th edition) there are currently (approximately 7 million diabetic patients in Pakistan; by 2040 Pakistan is projected to have 14.4 million diabetics and will rank 8th in the world.
"Understandably, many people with diabetes are eager to fast during Ramazan and therefore must consult with their doctor prior to the onset of Ramazan. Treating physicians would assess the ability of their patients to fast and advise accordingly. Patients must not place themselves at risk, as the decision to fast or not, should be based on medical advice", said Professor Abdul Basit, author of "Guidelines on Diabetes Management during Ramazan."
He also emphasised that following a highly individualised management plan and close follow-up is essential to avoid development of complications. The guidance is based on the "New Guidelines on Diabetes Management during Ramadan" launched in Dubai last month by the Diabetes & Ramadan International Alliance (DAR). These guidelines were the result of the combined expertise and efforts of international experts from multiple countries and supported by an unrestricted educational grant from Sanofi.
He said that Ramazan is one of the holiest periods in the Muslim calendar but fasting could adversely affect the health of a person who is unwell or suffers from a chronic condition such as diabetes. Islam exempts sick patients from fasting but a significant number of Muslim patients would like to fast. With so many Muslims with diabetes wanting to fast, there was a dire need for internationally recognised guidelines for doctors to follow while advising their patients. Greater awareness on this topic in a holistic way will improve the lives of patients and make Ramadan a safer experience for people with diabetes, he added.
Professor Muhammad Yakoob Ahmedani, co-author of the "Guidelines on Diabetes Management during Ramazan" urged the media to educate the general public and encourage them to approach their doctors. "Patients should specifically ask their doctors about medication dosage and timing alteration, diet and fluid intake, physical activity, self-monitoring of blood glucose, and symptoms of low/high blood glucose that may necessitate breaking the fast in order to prevent damage or danger to the patients' well-being", he added.
External Affairs Director of Sanofi Pakistan, Laila Khan, said, "At Sanofi, we are committed to supporting initiatives that answer the needs of the community and place the patient at the heart of the activity. We strive to improve the lives of people with diabetes by helping them to manage their condition well and live a full, healthy and fulfilled life. As Ramazan is only a few days away, it is imperative that any person with diabetes wanting to fast should visit their healthcare provider for a pre-Ramazan consultation". In the end A H Khanzada, Secretary KPC presented Ajraks to the speakers and other guests.-PR