Impact of Gender Differences on COVID-19 Infection Management at Sally Mugabe Central Hospital Harare Zimbabwe, 2020.

Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic presented unprecedented challenges to global health systems, with significant implications for clinical management and public health responses. This study investigates the impact of gender differences on the management of COVID-19 infections at Sally Mugabe Central Hospital in Harare, Zimbabwe, during the year 2020. Recognizing that biological sex and gender roles can influence susceptibility to infection, clinical presentation, treatment response, and health outcomes, the research aims to analyze how these differences shaped the management and outcomes of COVID-19 cases at one of Zimbabwe’s largest tertiary health institutions. Using a retrospective cross-sectional study design, clinical records of 350 COVID-19 patients were reviewed. Data were collected on demographic characteristics, comorbidities, symptoms, treatment regimens, and patient outcomes. The analysis explored gender-based differences in disease prevalence, severity at admission, length of hospital stay, and mortality. Statistical tools were applied to determine associations between gender and various clinical outcomes. The findings reveal notable disparities in infection patterns and treatment outcomes between male and female patients. Of the 154 infected 89 (58%) were Females while 65 (42%) where Males. Males presented with more severe symptoms and had higher rates of comorbidities such as hypertension and diabetes, contributing to a greater need for intensive care support and higher mortality rates. Females, while presenting earlier and with milder symptoms on average, also showed differing responses to treatment protocols. This base further supports the breakdown of the mortality rate, which comprised of a 21% rate with males taking up the larger percentage of 12% while females had a 9% mortality rate. The study also examined how gender roles and societal expectations may have influenced healthcare-seeking behaviour, potentially affecting the timing of presentation and adherence to treatment. This research underscores the importance of incorporating gender-sensitive approaches in pandemic preparedness and response strategies. It calls for a more nuanced understanding of gender dynamics in clinical care to ensure equitable health outcomes. Tailoring interventions based on gender-specific risk factors and healthcare needs can improve treatment effectiveness and contribute to better management of infectious disease outbreaks in resource-limited settings.