SAT-511 Knowledge, Attitudes, And Practices Of Physicians On Diabetes Mellitus Management During Ramadan - A Single Center Study In Mindanao, Philippines

Abstract Disclosure: J. Galia: None. A.D. Galia: None. Fasting during Ramadan is a pillar of Islam observed by many people living with diabetes mellitus in Mindanao, Philippines. Outcomes may be improved with proper preparation and management provided by physicians. A cross-sectional survey was administered to determine the knowledge, attitudes, and practices of physicians managing DM during Ramadan in an urban city of Mindanao. The first part of the survey focused on the pathophysiology of fasting and Ramadan, and the safe practices and management during Ramadan using the questionnaire from Zainudin and Hassan (1); the second part was based on the IDF-DAR 2021 guidelines risk calculator (2). Forty-four physicians were surveyed after informed consent; only two were Muslim. Duration of clinical practice ranged from 1 to 30 years (mean 7.8y), with 17 general practitioners and 16 internists. Most were in private practice; only 11% had prior education about DM management in Ramadan. Adjustment of DM medications in Ramadan was done by 32% of respondents, while 34% had encountered patients with diabetes complications during Ramadan. Forty percent had provided general medical advice on DM fasting in Ramadan; 73% were willing to provide specific counseling on DM and Ramadan. On the pathophysiology of fasting and Ramadan, the mean score was 58%, with 1/3 scoring below 50%; safe practices and management during Ramadan had a mean score of 76%, with all respondents scoring >50%. The mean correct answers on the IDF-DAR 2021 risk stratification were 74%, with only two respondents scoring <50%. Based on these results, physicians had good knowledge about safe practices and DM management during Ramadan and the risk factors conferring high risk for fasting complications in Ramadan. Knowledge of the pathophysiology of fasting and general knowledge about Ramadan was lower. These findings highlight the need to formulate educational programs for physicians focusing on managing DM in Ramadan. (1) Zainudin, S. B., & Hussain, A. B. (2018). The current state of knowledge, perception and practice in diabetes management during fasting in Ramadan by healthcare professionals. Diabetes & Metabolic Syndrome: Clinical Research & Reviews, 12(3), 337-342.(2) International Diabetes Federation and DAR International Alliance. Diabetes and Ramadan: Practical Guidelines, Brussels, Belgium: International Diabetes Federation, 2021. Presentation: Saturday, July 12, 2025