With Ramadan now underway, a new article provides 19 key recommendations for supporting patients with asthma, COPD, bronchiectasis and ILD who are fasting or considering fasting during Ramadan.
Led by authors from Leicester in collaboration with international experts, the guidance covers medication adjustments, inhaler use, symptom management, and general and specific respiratory health considerations, offering practical advice to support wellbeing whilst fasting.
Dr Fasi Khan, lead author, says:
"Fasting during Ramadan is a deeply meaningful spiritual practice for millions of Muslims worldwide, including those living with chronic lung diseases. However, for these patients, fasting can present complex medical and practical challenges.
Our article, based on systematic review and expert consensus, provides much-needed guidance to help healthcare professionals support their patients in making informed and safe decisions about fasting. By promoting individualised pre-Ramadan assessments and patient-centred advice, we hope this work empowers clinicians to have sensitive and constructive conversations, reduces uncertainty for patients, and ultimately improves their ability to observe Ramadan in a way that prioritises both faith and health."
Read the full article here to find out how you can provide tailored support during Ramadan.