Gender issues from the perspective of health-care professionals in Neuro-oncology: an EANO and EORTC Brain Tumor Group survey. Issue 2 (10th January 2020)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Le Rhun, Emilie; Weller, Michael; Niclou, Simone P; Short, Susan; Piil, Karin; Boele, Florien; Rudà, Roberta; Theodorou, Marilena; Brandsma, Dieta; van den Bent, Martin; Dirven, Linda
• Is Part Of: Neuro-oncology practice. Volume 7:Issue 2(2020)
• Page Start: 249
• Page End: 259
• Publication Date: 2020-01-10
• Subjects: disparities -- equality -- leadership -- oncology -- women; Brain -- Tumors -- Periodicals; Brain -- Cancer -- Periodicals; Nervous system -- Cancer -- Periodicals; 616.99481005
• DOI: 10.1093/nop/npz053
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2054-2577

Abstract

Abstract: Background: Women represent an increasing proportion of the overall workforce in medicine but are underrepresented in leadership roles. Methods: To explore gender inequalities and challenges in career opportunities, a web-based survey was conducted among the membership of the European Association of Neuro-Oncology and the Brain Tumor Group of the European Organisation for Research and Treatment of Cancer. Results: A total of 228 colleagues responded to the survey: 129 women (median age 45 years; range, 25-66 years) and 99 men (median age 48 years; range, 24-81 years); 153 participants (67%) were married and 157 participants (69%) had at least 1 child. Women less often declared being married (60% vs 77%, P = .007) or having a child (63% vs 77%, P = .024). Men more frequently had a full-time position (88% vs 75%, P = .036). Women and men both perceived an underrepresentation of women in leadership positions. Half of participants agreed that the most important challenges for women are leading a team and obtaining a faculty position. Fewer women than men would accept such a position (42% vs 56%). The main reasons were limited time for career and an inappropriate work and life balance. Women specifically cited negative discrimination, limited opportunities, and lack of self-confidence. Discrimination of women at work was perceived by 64% of women vs 47% of men ( P = .003). Conclusion: Women are perceived as experiencing more difficulties in acquiring a leadership position. Personal preferences may account for an underrepresentation of women in leadership positions, but perceived gender inequalities extend beyond disparities of access to leadership.