The Medical Professional Education Deanery (MPED), in collaboration with the Department of Endocrinology, Northwest General Hospital & Research Centre, Peshawar, organized a one-day symposium on “Diabetes in Ramadan” on Thursday, 29 January 2026. The event brought together healthcare professionals to address the clinical challenges of managing diabetes during fasting.

Professor Dr. Arshad Hussain, Consultant Endocrinologist and Diabetologist, delivered a comprehensive lecture on the pathophysiological effects of fasting in patients with diabetes, risk stratification for individuals intending to fast, and international guidelines for Ramadan-focused diabetes care. He highlighted the growing burden of diabetes in Pakistan and emphasized that many high-risk patients continue to fast, leading to frequent episodes of hypoglycemia and hyperglycemia.

Speakers stressed the vital importance of pre-Ramadan assessment, structured counseling, and individualized medication adjustments to minimize fasting-related complications. It was noted that many patients begin fasting without prior medical consultation, significantly increasing the risk of adverse outcomes. Evidence presented during the symposium demonstrated that timely pre-Ramadan education and medical optimization substantially improve glycemic control and reduce complications.

The symposium concluded with a strong call to action for healthcare professionals to proactively engage in patient education, medication review, and comprehensive pre-Ramadan counseling to ensure safer fasting for individuals living with diabetes.