ABSTRACT
The Muslim fast of Ramadan, involving over one in six of all humans, is however the most widely observed celebration of this most sacred of rituals; hence healthcare professionals are very likely to come into most intimate contact with fasting when caring for Muslims. This chapter considers the rules and regulations governing fasting, using this as a basis to explore the implications of fasting for health and healthcare provision. Faced with the fasting patient, it is important for professionals to be aware of which treatments the individual considers acceptable, and offer treatment accordingly. For those working in areas with large Muslim populations, it seems important that general practitioners, nurses and community pharmacists receive some training with respect to managing the fasting patient. It would seem prudent to encourage patients to consult their primary care staff well in advance of Ramadan to discuss issues regarding the safety of fasting and any possible medication changes.
