Act Together and Act Now to Overcome Gender Disparity in Organ Transplantation

Gender disparity refers to the unequal treatment or a perception of individuals based on their gender and arises from differences in socially constructed gender roles. In the field of transplantation, gender inequality arises at different stages, affecting access to medical care, donation practices, and posttransplant followup care. Gender disparity in transplantation is not limited to any geographic region but is thought to be more prevalent in developing nations. An unusually high number of female donations with relatively fewer female recipients is not only attributable to the low economy but a congregation of medical, social, cultural, and psychological factors. Gender disparities can also be shown in transplant-related professional societies. This review highlights the complexities of spousal donation and vulnerability of women, especially in the developing world. There is a growing need to further modify transplant policies to tackle gender disparities, especially in living related donation. Systematic research in the context of gender-related concerns in transplantation will further aid in understanding the complexities and formulating policies for eliminating gender disparities. Gender disparity is a global problem and not merely limited to transplantation.