First of all, I wish for the month of Ramadan to pass with health, peace, and abundance for all of us.
This year, our struggle with the stress of COVID-19 has not completely ended. Although there have been some relaxations in life, the risk still persists.
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One of the questions that comes to mind during the days of Ramadan is: Should we fast?
Among the group of patients asking this question are those diagnosed with breast cancer, who are currently undergoing active treatment or have recently finished their treatment. A recent trend, known as intermittent fasting, which is similar to diets involving long periods of fasting, and is part of our religious practice, has become one of the main subjects of scientific studies. As a result, patients receiving breast cancer treatment wonder whether they can fast during the month of Ramadan.
The Importance of Food for Cancer Patients
In cancer patients, food and fluid intake are very important for both the effectiveness of treatment and for the patient's metabolism and immune system. During the pandemic, the immune system of our cancer patients has become even more critical. Regardless of the type of cancer or treatment planning, we do not recommend fasting for cancer patients currently undergoing active treatment, such as chemotherapy or radiotherapy. This group of patients includes those who have had or will have surgery in the last month, and those who are currently undergoing chemotherapy or radiotherapy sessions and have not yet undergone post-treatment control imaging.
We Do Not Recommend Fasting for Active Cancer Patients
Chemotherapeutic drugs often cause side effects such as nausea, vomiting, and fatigue, which lead to weakness and loss of appetite in patients. Additionally, fasting can further deteriorate the patient's overall condition and may suppress the immune system even more, making the patient more vulnerable to diseases.
Moreover, due to changes in nutrition and sleep patterns of those fasting, conditions like constipation and fluid loss, which are also side effects of chemotherapy drugs, may worsen. Fasting during active treatment for breast cancer patients is therefore risky. Especially this year, during Ramadan, we do not recommend fasting for patients undergoing active treatment for breast cancer.
Patients Whose Treatment Is Completed Can Fast Under Doctor's Supervision
However, cancer patients who have completed their treatment and are under follow-up, have good general health, and whose condition is not expected to worsen during fasting, can fast with their physician's consultation, if they wish. We, as physicians, can make the best decision for the patient by considering their overall health condition.
Prof. Dr. Bülent ÇİTGEZ
