The Utility of Flash Glucose Monitoring for Patients with Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus during Fasting in Ramadan

Abstract

Aims The study aimed to assess the effectiveness of the Flash Glucose Monitor (FGM) in empowering patients with Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus (T1DM) to fast safely during the month of Ramadan. Methods In this prospective interventional study, eligible adult patients with T1DM were monitored with FGM and completed a survey after Ramadan. Time in range, glucose variability, changes in HbA1c, and renal function was evaluated. IRB approval and informed consent were acquired prior to the study. For data analysis (SPSS) Version 25 was used. Results The study included 8 adults (5 females, 3 males). The use of FGM enabled 25% of patients who were not able to fast in the previous year to fast in the current year.The median frequency of hypoglycemic episodes increased during Ramadan from 8 to 24 (p-value 0.049), however. Glucose variability during Ramadan was reduced by 4.05 ± 7.00 % but was not significant (p-value 0.17). The time in range before Ramadan was 51.00% ±10.75, during Ramadan was 53.42% ±14.83,and post-Ramadan was 55.85%± 10. HbA1cand creatinine did not change before and after Ramadan, (p-values of 0.465 and 0.315 respectively) indicating that glycemic control and renal function were maintained. Conclusion Active glucose monitoring using FGM coupled withstructured pre-Ramadan counseling and patient education aids in empowering patient to fast safely and maintain glycemic control during month of Ramadan and avoid complications including DKA and severe hypoglycemia. Keywords: Diabetes Mellitus; Flash glucose monitoring; Fasting, Ramadan; Time in Range.