Gender Differences in Perception of Neurosurgery as a Career Choice in Pakistan: A Nationwide Cross-Sectional Survey

Abstract

A low neurosurgeon-to-patient ratio persists to be a problem in many developing nations including Pakistan. Concurrent gender disparities further exacerbate the challenges posed by the already limited workforce. An understanding of the perceptions of neurosurgery among female early career doctors is crucial in the evolution of the field in terms of both, workforce strength and inclusivity. A cross-sectional study was conducted across public and private medical schools of Pakistan. A close-ended self-administered questionnaire was employed to assess subject-reported challenges and perceptions regarding neurosurgery. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS version 28, and p< 0.05 was considered significant. The influence of these perceptions on the choice of neurosurgery as a career was determined by binary logistic regression analysis. Of the 387 responses received from over 45 institutions across the country, 55.6% were females and 44.4% were male respondents. Compared to men, women were more likely to opt out of neurosurgery due to fear of problems with parenting (p<0.001), absence of daycare facilities (p<0.001), lack of female role models (p=0.001), fear of gender discrimination (p<0.001), and the mental (p=0.04) and physical distress (p=0.008) associated with neurosurgery. Binary logistic regression revealed that these concerns were responsible for an increased likelihood of opting out of neurosurgery among female medical students and intern doctors. Significant differences exist in how male and female medical students perceive neurosurgery as a career choice. Interventions including availability of day care facilities for children, creation of inclusive workplace environment, and promotion of mentorship programs catering to women can help bridge this gap and contribute to evolution of the field of neurosurgery in the developing world.