Effect of Gender Difference in CABG Surgery Patients and its Impact on Outcome in Patients of Bangladesh – An Observational Study

Background: Global studies indicate that women face increased early mortality and postoperative complications following coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery compared to men. Complex preoperative conditions and delayed access to specialized cardiac care contribute to this disparity. This study aimed to evaluate gender-based differences in risk factors, clinical outcomes, and socio-demographic barriers among patients undergoing CABG in Bangladesh. Methods: This prospective observational study was conducted at the Cardiac Center over a one-year period from January 2009 to December 2010 in Bangladesh. A total of 33 patients (26 males and 7 females) aged 40–70 years who underwent CABG were included. Patients with prior cardiac surgery or more than four risk factors were excluded. Baseline clinical parameters, socio-demographic variables, and post-operative outcomes (mortality, morbidity, return to normal activity, disease-free state) were analyzed using descriptive statistics and chi-square tests. Results: Despite having fewer female patients, the study revealed that women presented at an older age and had delayed access to diagnosis and surgical intervention due to financial dependence and social constraints. However, post-CABG outcomes at both 6 months and 1 year showed significantly lower mortality (p = 0.043) and comparable or better recovery rates among females. Socio-demographic analysis highlighted gender disparities in treatment access, family role, and time to surgical correction. Conclusion: Although females in Bangladesh face delayed access to cardiac care due to socio-cultural factors, those who undergo CABG demonstrate outcomes equal to or better than males. The findings emphasize the need for gender-sensitive healthcare policies and improved access to cardiac services for women.