Survey on physician's knowledge and attitude towards management of diabetes mellitus during Ramadan. (ahead of publication)

Ramadan fasting has received a lot of attention given the long periods of fasting and the theoretically imposed risk in patients with diabetes. Many recommendations have been published, however physician’s knowledge and practices did not comply with these recommendations in many occasions. To explore physician’s opinions and attitudes towards management of diabetes during Ramadan. We also aimed to assess knowledge and compliance of the physicians with available recommendations for management of diabetes in Ramadan. 95% (n=862) thought the type of diabetes is either important or very important to be considered in the decision of fasting. Pre-Ramadan diabetes control is thought to be either important or very important 95% (n=848). Majority of the responders considered SMBG as import or very important if the patient is on insulin or Sulphonyureas (SUs), and to a lesser extend if they are on oral hypoglycemic agents other than SUs. 63.8% (397) confirmed availability of such programs to their patients. 36.2% (n= 225) lacks for such programs. It is essential to raise patients and physicians’ awareness of the importance of Ramadan focused structured educational programs in reducing the risks associated with fasting for patients with diabetes. We recommend developing Simplified guidelines and educational materials made available to health care workers to help with the educational process before Ramadan.