Gender Disparities in Hemodialysis Prevalence, Access, and Quality of Life: A Study from Kerala, India
Jyothipriya Jyothindrakumar, Jyothi Susan George, N. L. Swathi, Stephy Rachel Thomas, Aiswarya Dhanapalan, Sneha Anna Joy, E. T. Arun Thomas, Rajesh Joseph, A. M. Shameer, K. G. Hareesh, Sonu Manuel, Geo Philip John, P Shamnad, Binoy Philip
A
BSTRACT
Background:
Despite high literacy and favorable health indicators in Kerala, gender disparities persist in the care of chronic kidney disease. This study examined sex-based differences in the prevalence and access to hemodialysis, treatment experiences of patients, and the quality of life (QoL).
Methods:
A cross-sectional survey was conducted across 11 dialysis centers in five districts of Kerala. Data were collected from 321 female and 334 male participants. Parameters included demographics, vascular access types, caretaker involvement, financial distress, and gender-specific societal pressures.
Results:
Of 1172 total patients screened, only 32% were women. Women had a significantly higher reliance on catheters for access compared to men (24%) and greater dependence on caretakers (95.6%). Gender-specific pressures were reported by 21.2% of women. While distress financing was similar across groups, women scored significantly lower in QoL measures.
Conclusion:
Women are underrepresented in dialysis care in Kerala and face unique barriers, including delayed permanent vascular access and higher psychosocial pressures. Gender-sensitive interventions, such as early fistula creation and targeted social support, are essential to bridge these gaps.