Perception and Experience of Gender Based Discrimination Among Medical Undergraduates: A Cross-Sectional Observational Study
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Abstract
Background: Gender-based discrimination (GBD) in medical education can significantly impact students' academic performance, mental well-being, and career progression. Understanding the prevalence and nature of GBD among medical undergraduates is crucial for developing inclusive policies. This study aims to assess the perception and experiences of GBD among medical students at a tertiary care hospital, in capital city of North India. Materials and methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among MBBS students from first to final year between September and December 2024. The sample size was calculated as 434, based on a previously reported GBD prevalence of 78%. A total of 476 students participated. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire and analyzed using Epi Info version 7.2.6. Chi-square tests were used to assess statistical significance. Results: The study included 276 (58%) female and 200 (42%) male students, with a mean age of 23±2.72 years. GBD was reported by 78% of participants. While both genders faced GBD in academics and social interactions, females reported significantly higher discrimination in hostel facilities (56.5%, p=0.0001) and from college staff (30%, p=0.04). Discrimination in practical classes (20.2%) and examinations (20.6%) was more frequent among males (p=0.017, p=0.013). Female students experienced greater mental distress (47% vs. 26%, p=0.0001). Conclusion: GBD is prevalent among medical undergraduates, with notable gender-specific disparities. Addressing institutional biases, ensuring equitable facilities, and fostering awareness can help create an inclusive educational environment.
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Copyright (c) 2025 Richa Choudhary, Krishna Kumar Singh, Pradeep Kumar Yadav, Madhulika Shukla, Vivek Pathak, Minhal Mirza
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License.
Creative Commons License All articles published in Annals of Medicine and Medical Sciences are licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License.
Richa Choudhary, Professor and HOD, Department of FMT, Dr. Ram Manohar Lohia Institute of Medical Sciences, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, India.
Professor and HOD, Department of FMT, Dr. Ram Manohar Lohia Institute of Medical Sciences, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, India.
Pradeep Kumar Yadav, Associate Professor, Department of FMT, Dr. Ram Manohar Lohia Institute of Medical Sciences, Lucknow, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, India.
Associate Professor, Department of FMT, Dr. Ram Manohar Lohia Institute of Medical Sciences, Lucknow, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, India.
Madhulika Shukla, Junior Resident, Department of FMT, Dr. Ram Manohar Lohia Institute of Medical Sciences, Lucknow, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, India.
Junior Resident, Department of FMT, Dr. Ram Manohar Lohia Institute of Medical Sciences, Lucknow, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, India.
Vivek Pathak, Junior Resident, Department of FMT, Dr. Ram Manohar Lohia Institute of Medical Sciences, Lucknow, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, India.
Junior Resident, Department of FMT, Dr. Ram Manohar Lohia Institute of Medical Sciences, Lucknow, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, India.
Minhal Mirza, MBBS Student, Dr. Ram Manohar Lohia Institute of Medical Sciences, Lucknow, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, India.
MBBS Student, Dr. Ram Manohar Lohia Institute of Medical Sciences, Lucknow, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, India.
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