Ramadan

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We understand how important Ramadan is for our Muslim patients and staff and we want all our patients and staff to stay healthy during Ramadan. The Islamic Calendar follows the phases of the moon, commonly known as the lunar cycle. As a result, the Holy month of Ramadan falls approximately 10 days earlier each year in the Gregorian calendar. The Ramadan start date for 2024 is expected to fall on 10 or 11 March (with the possible variation of a few days) following the sighting of the moon over Mecca or respective countries. Lasting for 29 or 30 days, Ramadan will end around 9 April, with the celebratory days of Eid al-Fitr estimated to start around 10 April, again with a possible difference of a couple of days.

The practice of fasting during Ramadan is very important. It is a holy time and we understand that many of you see it as an honour to do it. Many people abstain from food, drink and smoking between dawn and sunset over the month. It’s also a time for self-reflection and evaluation.

It’s really important to stay healthy during this time which means just taking note of any health conditions and ensuring you are aware how your fasting affects your health and wellbeing.

Supporting you to have a healthy Ramadan

Do you take prescribed medicines?

Remember to continue to take prescribed medicines during Ramadan, but do check with your GP if the doses need to be adjusted or the times you take them changed.

Do you have diabetes?

If you have diabetes and want to fast you should speak to your GP or diabetes nurse about the safest way to do this. There is an exemption for people with diabetes, especially for those on insulin or who have any medical complications.

Attending medical appointments

If you have a medical appointment booked during Ramadan, it is very important that you attend. If you need to adjust the time of your appointment, please contact the relevant healthcare organisation to do so.

It’s important to remember that there are several exemptions allowed to fasting. Those with increased risk of contracting Covid-19 should consider alternative options. These include those who are unwell due to conditions including diabetes, blood pressure, heart disease, lung disease, or those who are on medication, pregnant or elderly.

What to do if you become unwell while fasting

The British Islamic Medical Association advises that if you become unwell during Ramadan, you should stop fasting and seek medical advice. You can do this by visiting the NHS 111 website or your GP practice’s website or if you don’t have access to the internet, by calling 111 or your practice directly.

Eid Al-Fitr

The month will end with the celebration of Eid Al-Fitr. It’s traditionally a celebration involving meals, parties, and visiting family and friends and attending special prayers in mosques.

More advice

Advice for people with diabetes on how to stay healthy during Ramadan can be found on the Diabetes UK website. There are also factsheets available in several different languages.

Published: Mar 11, 2024