0067 : The effect of the fast of Ramadan on ambulatory blood pressure in treated hypertensives

IntroductionFasting of Ramadan is a religious obligation that is practiced by the Muslim population in the world. However, there is a lack of scientific literature regarding the effects on cardiovascular disorders such as hypertension.ObjectiveThis study was conducted to assess the impact of Ramadan fasting on blood pressure in treated hypertensive patients.Materials and MethodsThis prospective observational trial was conducted on 18 patients treated for hypertension, who were determined to end the fast of Ramadan. All subjects were on antihypertensive therapy. Measurements of blood pressure was performed by Holter blood pressure before and after the month of Ramadan.ResultsThe mean age of subjects was 57.61±12.64 years; with a female predominance. There was a significant decrease in average diastolic 24-h ambulatory blood pressure, as well as average diastolic awake ambulatory blood pressure after Ramadan (70,72±9,24mmHg vs 65,06±8,23mmHg, P=0,01 et 73,72±10,10mmHg vs 70,06±9,43mmHg, P=0,01). Average systolic 24-h ambulatory blood pressure, as well as average awake systolic and average asleep systolic and diastolic ambulatory blood pressure was similar before and after Ramadan (125,50±11,62mmHg vs 122,94±10,09mmHg, P=0,08 ; 128,44±12,19mmHg vs 126,11±10,80mmHg, P=0,06 ; 120,67±13,20mmHg vs 119,83±13,76mmHg, P=0,73 ; 65,72±8,84mmHg vs 65,72±8,84mmHg, P=0,81).ConclusionWe conclude that, according to our results, hypertensive patients can continue their treatment as the traditional fasting during Ramadan can be performed safely