Abstract IA-24: Implicit bias in oncology: Towards a more inclusive workforce

Abstract

Abstract Implicit bias includes those unconscious attitudes, biases, and stereotypes that shape our behaviors and interactions with others. While implicit biases are known to adversely affect the care of oncology patients, they are also deeply imbued in the culture of our workforce and permit a non-inclusive environment. The consequences of implicit bias are profound, including repeated microaggressions, detraction from academic work, the biased language of evaluation, the cumulative effects of such biases on promotions, and the lack of diversity in leadership positions. Dismantling such a system requires conscious effort rooted in organizational commitment. This session will begin to address these issues by applying a tangible approach to recruitment, highlighting the intentionality of overhauling a recruitment process. Such an approach can be replicated in other settings when grounded in a firm dedication to inclusion and an openness to self-education and self-reflection. Citation Format: Jessica W Tsai. Implicit bias in oncology: Towards a more inclusive workforce [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the AACR Virtual Conference: 14th AACR Conference on the Science of Cancer Health Disparities in Racial/Ethnic Minorities and the Medically Underserved; 2021 Oct 6-8. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2022;31(1 Suppl):Abstract nr IA-24.