Diabetes and Ramadan event to help prepare for the holy month

Diabetes UK, with support from Act as One, the health and care partnership for Bradford and Craven, is hosting a free webinar on Thursday 17 February, for anyone preparing for and participating in Ramadan.

We'll hear from people who have experience of diabetes and Ramadan and know what it's like to manage their condition during the holy month. The event will also include information from Moulana Azizur Rahman and health expert Dr Waqas Tahir, from Act as One and West Yorkshire Health and Care Partnership.

This year, Ramadan will run from 2 April for 29 or 30 days. The exact dates will be confirmed nearer the time, and Ramadan ends with Eid al-Fitr in May. The Qur'an requires Muslims to fast during the month of Ramadan from sunrise to sunset. There are exceptions to fasting and people who are unwell or have medical conditions are not expected to fast. This includes people with diabetes.

Dr Waqas Tahir, GP and Clinical Lead for the Act as One Diabetes Programme, said:

“Preparing for the holy month of Ramadan is something many Muslims will be thinking about now. We want to help those living with diabetes and their loved ones to understand some of the health issues they should consider if they want to fast during Ramadan.

“We are pleased to be working with colleagues at Diabetes UK to run this webinar so that people can access trusted advice and guidance so they make an informed choice that is best for them. This is the latest in a series of events we have been working on with Diabetes UK which builds on our new partnership.”

Clare Howarth, Head of the North of England at Diabetes UK, said about the Diabetes and Ramadan event:  

“Choosing whether or not to fast is a personal choice, however getting information and advice in advance can help you decide whether it is right and safe for you to do so.

“This event will be a great opportunity for people with diabetes to get support and guidance to help them participate in Ramadan safely. As well as hearing from others who have diabetes and observe Ramadan, there will also be the chance to ask any questions you might have, to help you prepare for the holy month.”

The webinar will take place on Zoom, from 5-6.30pm. Please book your place in advance.

Book your place on the Diabetes and Ramadan webinar