How fasting before surgery affects patient outcomes

This is a large research study looking at fasting practices before surgery and procedures. Researchers want to understand whether the time patients spend without food or drink before anesthesia affects how their bodies respond during and after surgery—including blood pressure, blood sugar levels, anxiety, and the rare risk of stomach contents entering the lungs.

For many years, doctors have required patients to fast before surgery as a safety measure. However, new research suggests that prolonged fasting without food or fluids may actually harm patients by causing low blood pressure, low blood sugar, and increased anxiety. This study aims to gather real-world evidence about whether current fasting rules help or hurt patients, so doctors can develop better guidelines that keep people safe and comfortable.