Are you Ramadan Ready? Local Muslim communities are being invited to health events in Nottingham

Local Muslim communities are being invited to health events in Nottingham to help them prepare for fasting ahead of Ramadan next month (March).

The British Islamic Medical Association (BIMA) are working with the NHS to organise a series of health days across the country. These will help communities condition their physical and mental health for Ramadan.

The Nottingham events will be held on the 18^th February at Jamia Masjid Sultania and 25^th February at Masjid Al Khazra.

Local GPs and other health professionals will offer talks and opportunities to discuss aspects of their health and wellbeing in mosques across the country. Information from local NHS and public health providers will also be available around common conditions such as diabetes, menopause, heart disease, immunisations, mental health, and respiratory disease. There will also be opportunities to have health checks including blood pressures and blood sugars, with experts available to discuss healthier lifestyle choices tailored to the community.

Nottingham GP, Dr Arshad Latif, said: “Ramadan brings a huge opportunity to revisit our routines and think about our health, as well as the wellbeing of those around us. 

“If you can’t make it to the health events, you can also get advice on how to manage your health from the usual health care professionals, such as your diabetes team, GP practice or your community pharmacy.” 

Dr Salman Waqar, President of BIMA said, “Ramadan is an exciting time for us and our families. As we alter our routines to accommodate the fast to seek the spiritual benefits of the month, we can also look to material gains in our health. This can be through maintaining the Ramadan spirit and discipline in moderating our diet to lose weight, stopping smoking, and continuing to practice mindfulness to promote good mental health. Ramadan can be demanding to those with some long-term health conditions, and they should seek the advice of a clinician on how they should approach Ramadan.”

These events have been commissioned by NHS England, and BIMA will be work in close collaboration with local NHS and public health teams.

They will be taking place in February at the following venues: