Abstract

Objective: This study aimed to assess the attitude and awareness of the general population in Saudi Arabia regarding the challenges faced by female surgeons.
Methods: This cross-sectional study involved the analysis of sociodemographic data and perceptions about female Saudi surgeons. The data consisted of a diverse sample from Saudi Arabia’s general population, and chi-square tests and t-tests were used to examine the perceptions of male and female participants toward male and female surgeons.
Results: The sample consisted of 59.1% female and 40.9% male, indicating a balanced distribution. The regional distribution was proportionate with sufficient representation. Male participants believed that male surgeons were better. They also contended that females were more suitable to serve in non-surgical disciplines. It is extremely significant to learn that the perceptions of gender differences in surgical competence intercourse were significantly associated, where male participants had more negative perceptions of female surgeons.
Conclusion: The gender disparity reflected numerous cultural and institutional challenges. Male participants held more negative perceptions of the competence and suitability of female surgeons. The government must take action by enacting policies to reduce hostility and gender disparity in the workplace. Reducing cultural and gender disparities in perceptions of competence would be best achieved by addressing gender inequality before government intervention.

Key words: Female surgeons, Saudi Arabia, gender discrimination, cultural barriers, surgical field