Iranian Journal of

---

Background: Diabetes type 1 is characterized by autoimmune destruction or primary dysfunction of pancreatic  cells. The more common form is the autoimmune type, which can be associated with other endocrine malfunction such as adrenal insufficiency and Hashimoto’s thyroiditis. Autoimmune thyroiditis is characterized by presence of anti TG, anti TPO and anti TSH antibodies in the plasma. This study has investigated the prevalence of autoimmune thyroid disorders in type 1 diabetic patients.
Methods: 200 type 1 diabetics and 200 age/sex matched non-diabetic controls were recruited. Blood samples were taken to determine serum levels of thyroid hormones (T3RU, T3, T4, and TSH) and antithyroid antibodies.
Results: TG-Ab and TPO-Ab levels were significantly higher (P<0.001) in diabetics compared to controls (mean TG-Ab: 955.7±495.5 in diabetics and 451.0±189.5 in controls mean TPO-Ab: 463.2±182.3 in diabetics and 112.4±38.3 in controls). Clinical and subclinical hyperthyroidism was four times more common in diabetics. Conclusion: It seems reasonable that type 1 diabetic patients, especially those at younger ages, be screened for thyroid hormones and anti-thyroid antibodies

---

It is estimated that there are 1.1-1.5 billion Muslims worldwide, and prevalence of diabetes is approximately 4.6%. Many patients with diabetes insist on fasting during Ramadan, thereby creates a medical challenge for themselves and their physicians. These patients are susceptible to diabetic complications such as hypoglycemia and hyperglycemia. It is therefore important that medical professionals be aware of potential risks that may be associated with fasting during Ramadan. Patients who insist on Ramadan fasting be assessed before Ramadan and receive appropriate education and instructions related to physical activity, meal planning, glucose monitoring, and dosage and timing of medications. In this article, management of diabetes in Ramadan is discussed.