185 Gender disparity in dermatologic society leadership: A global perspective

Abstract

Background and Objectives: In the last half-century, there has been increased participation of women in medicine. Despite this increase, there continues to be an underrepresentation of women in medical leadership positions. Knowing that among North American dermatologists, there is a predominance of women, the objective of this study was to investigate whether the phenomenon of gender disparity in dermatological societies exists and is consistent worldwide. Methods: Online databases were used to extract the names of global dermatologic societies. Individual society websites were accessed to extract information on executive members. Data not available on society websites was obtained using google search. Scopus was then used to calculate H-indexes and other bibliometrics. Results+discussion: Data spanned 92 countries, 8 continents, with 1733 entries and data for 1710. In North-America (38.35%), Europe (37.88%), Asia (32.02%), Australia (29.31%), and the Middle-East (44.44%), the minority of society leadership was female. In South America (57.45%), Central America (57.89%), Africa (53.33%), a slight majority was female. Across all societies, the role of president was most frequently held by men (95) as opposed to women (75). Women were less likely to be deans/chair-persons/directors(83.33%) than their male counterparts (92.06%) at their hospitals. The average H-index of women was lower (9) than men (14). Lower H-indexes, and institutional positions may influence the paucity of women on these executive-committees. These may stem from less access to same gender mentors and sponsors, fewer research opportunities, and additional responsibilities at home. Conclusions: Gender disparities exist in leadership position in dermatologic societies. Cultural/continental specific factors should be explored further. Enhancing of institutional support, mentorship, and sponsorship for female dermatologists should be encouraged.