Statewide Physician Survey Regarding Pediatric Muslim Fasting.

Abstract

During Ramadan, Muslims fast from dawn to dusk for the duration of the month. The current literature focuses on adults who fast, with little attention to pediatric practices. An anonymous, digital survey was conducted using Qualtrics software and distributed to residents, fellows, or attendings in Michigan in 2019. Overall, 278 participants were included in the analysis, with 87% (242/278) identifying as pediatric trained physicians. In all, 82% (228/278) of physicians identified as non-Muslim and 76% (211/278) had never partaken in the Muslim fast. About 52% (141/273) of participants had at least a moderate amount of exposure to Muslim pediatric patients in their clinical practice. Most physicians (66%; 175/265) reported they never asked their pediatric patients or their families about fasting. About 61% (167/273) of participants rated their understanding of fasting as minimal to none. Another 52% (142/273) of participants reported feeling somewhat or extremely uncomfortable discussing fasting recommendations with their pediatric patients and their families. Our study is the first of its kind in assessing current knowledge and practice regarding pediatric Muslim fasting among physicians in the United States. In addition, it highlights a gap in physicians' understanding and comfort in providing anticipatory guidance for their Muslim patients.