Gender bias in the diagnosis of cardiovascular disorders in Catalonia

Abstract

In this study, we examine patient gender bias on the probabilities of both visiting the cardiologist and of being diagnosed with a heart disease. Using data from the Catalan Health Survey, we are able to conclude that there is gender bias both in access and diagnosis for patients with high likelihood of suffering heart issues. Our findings suggest that women have lower probabilities of visiting the cardiologist and of being diagnosed with a heart disease after controlling for risk factor and demographics characteristics.

Keywords: Cardiovascular diseases; Gender bias; Heart risk factors.