Muslim persons' experiences of diabetes during Ramadan: Information for health professionals
Sarah Peterson
School of Nursing and Midwifery, University of South Australia, City East Campus, Adelaide SA
Robyn Nayda
Senior Lecturer and Child Protection Consultant, Division of Health Sciences, School of Nursing and Midwifery, University of South Australia, City East Campus, Adelaide SA
Pauline Hill
School of Nursing and Midwifery, University of South Australia, City East Campus, Adelaide SA
PP: 41 - 47
Abstract
This phenomenological study provides an in-depth understanding of the lived experiences of Muslim persons with diabetes during Ramadan. The findings facilitate health professionals' knowledge of the unique needs of these clients during this time. van Manen's (1990) and Hycner's (1985) analytical methods assisted in producing the themes: knowing and understanding - being in harmony with the body, knowing its capabilities and limitations and its response to change; controlling - being in charge of diabetes during Ramadan; accepting and recognising - acknowledging diabetes and its impact on fasting during Ramadan; and faith and belief -the courage of conviction.
Keywords
Muslim, diabetes, Ramadan
Article Text
The prevalence of type 2 diabetes in Australia incurs significant economic and social cost. The disease is a national health priority area with approximately 1 in 30 people in Australia diagnosed at some time in their lives (Australian Bureau of Statistics 2006) (ABS). The effective management of diabetes relies on a balance of diet, exercise and if necessary, medication. Establishing a lifestyle that incorporates these factors as routine assists in maintaining optimal blood glucose levels (International Diabetes Institute 2007). Certain cultural or religious practices may require individuals with diabetes to alter their daily lifestyle routines resulting in exposure to diabetes related problems. One such practice is the Islamic custom of Ramadan.
Islam is one of the largest non Christian religions in Australia (ABS 2006) and has practices and belief systems that are different from the majority of the population. Health professionals are required to provide competent and culturally safe care based on understandings of different religious and cultural practices such as those of Islam.
Research exploring the experiences of a phenomenon can facilitate this understanding.
Phenomenological perspectives ask 'meaning questions' that aim to elicit the essence of the 'lived experience' (van Manen 1990) and in this study the phenomenological approach allowed for an understanding of the lived experience of Muslim persons with diabetes during Ramadan.
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