Type 2 diabetes in south Asian people.

There are many idiosyncrasies relating to the development and management of type 2 diabetes in the south Asian population. This article highlights the epidemiology of type 2 diabetes and reasons for the high prevalence in this population. Different cultural attitudes and beliefs are considered and, in particular, how these relate to the person's dietary needs. The article concludes with a discussion on the implications of prolonged fasting during Ramadan.