Why carry out this study?

Saudi Arabia has one of the highest prevalences of diabetes in the world with over 30% of its population affected by type 2 diabetes. This has negative impacts on the lives of individuals and is a great burden on the healthcare system and the economy of the country.

Physical activity and sleeping patterns are important factors for managing diabetes. These are susceptible to alterations during the month of Ramadan when most adult Saudis perform a type of intermittent fasting, from dawn till dusk for 29–30 days. How Ramadan fasting alters sleeping and physical activity of Saudis with type 2 diabetes has not been well investigated.

What was learned from the study?

High prevalence of physical inactivity among study participants is a cause for concern and further research is needed in this area with a larger population.

Short sleeping duration during Ramadan and prevalence of short night-time sleep after Ramadan may have adverse effects on the health of individuals with type 2 diabetes which needs to be further investigated.