Fasting for cancer patients during Ramadan: Important medical and religious guidelines

Introduction: Ramadan and the challenges faced by cancer patients

With the arrival of the holy month of Ramadan, cancer patients face a unique challenge: balancing the desire to observe the fast with the critical need to maintain their health and continue their treatment. In this context, Dr. Hadeer Mir, a consultant in radiation oncology, cautioned against making the decision to fast without consulting a specialist, emphasizing that Islamic law prioritizes the preservation of life, and that the dispensation to break the fast for patients is a blessing and a concession from God that must be accepted to protect lives.

Legal context: Preserving life is a fundamental objective

The Islamic faith is based on the principles of ease and the removal of hardship, especially in cases of illness and travel. The principle of "preserving life" is one of the five major objectives of Islamic law, and it takes precedence over many acts of worship. The Holy Quran grants a clear dispensation to the sick to break their fast, as God Almighty says in Surah Al-Baqarah: "So whoever among you is ill or on a journey, then an equal number of days [must be made up] later." This divine guidance emphasizes that human health and well-being are paramount, and that breaking the fast with a legitimate excuse does not diminish a Muslim's reward; rather, it is an application of the tolerant spirit of Islamic law.

The decision to fast: A thorough medical assessment

Dr. Mir emphasized that the decision to fast for a cancer patient is not solely a personal one, but is subject to strict medical criteria that vary significantly from case to case. He explained that the decisive factors in this decision include:

• Tumor type and stage: Tumors vary in their severity and impact on the body.
• Treatment plan: Patients undergoing chemotherapy, radiotherapy, or immunotherapy require fluids, nutrition, and medication regularly during the day, making fasting dangerous for their health.
• The patient's general health condition: Stability of vital body functions and the patient's ability to tolerate abstinence from food and drink.

Accordingly, safe fasting is limited to stable cases that do not suffer from acute complications and do not require a daytime treatment protocol based on fluids and medications.

Warning signs that necessitate immediate breakfast

The medical expert stressed the need to break the fast immediately if any of the following danger signs appear, in order to avoid serious complications:

• Severe dizziness or loss of balance.
• A sharp drop in blood pressure or blood sugar levels.
• Obvious signs of dehydration.
• Persistent vomiting.

Psychological and family support: an integral part of treatment

Dr. Mir highlighted the profound psychological dimensions of treatment during Ramadan, warning that stress and anxiety can weaken the immune response and hinder recovery. He emphasized the responsibility of patients' families to provide psychological and social support, stressing that embracing the patient and shielding them from the pressures of fasting is one of the most powerful supportive therapies.

Guidelines for cancer survivors

Regarding those recovering from the illness, the consultant explained that they can fast normally, provided their health is stable and they have completed intensive treatment without leaving any chronic complications, such as weakened immunity. He advised this group to undergo regular checkups before Ramadan to ensure their bodies are ready, to approach fasting with awareness and caution, to focus on a balanced diet, to increase fluid intake between Iftar and Suhoor, and to avoid fatty and salty foods.