E-WIN Project 2016: Evaluating the Current Gender Situation in Neurosurgery Across Europe-An Interactive,...

Area of Science:

• Neurosurgery
• Medical workforce diversity
• Gender studies in medicine

Background:

• The representation of women in neurosurgery is increasing globally, yet comprehensive European data were unavailable.
• Concerns regarding gender inequality persist within the neurosurgical field.
• The European Women in Neurosurgery Project 2016 aimed to document the contemporary landscape of women in European neurosurgery.

Purpose of the Study:

• To ascertain the current proportion of women in neurosurgery across Europe.
• To investigate potential gender-based differences in professional experiences and perceptions within neurosurgery.

Main Methods:

• Data were collected from national neurosurgical society office holders in 39 European countries.
• An online survey supplemented the official data provided by national societies.
• Response rates from national office holders were high (90%), with 237 online questionnaire responses analyzed.

Main Results:

• The overall proportion of women neurosurgeons was 12%, based on reported figures from national societies.
• In the online survey, 30% of respondents identifying as women were recorded.
• No significant gender differences were found in weekly working hours, surgical exposure, or administrative tasks. Male respondents reported more time on scientific work and career control. Female respondents reported fewer marriages, fewer children, a greater perceived importance of gender, and higher self-appreciation.

Conclusions:

• While the survey did not indicate a pervasive sense of gender inequality among European neurosurgeons, women respondents perceived the gender issue as more significant.
• Women neurosurgeons reported a greater perceived need for personal life sacrifices compared to their male counterparts.
• The findings highlight nuanced perceptions of gender dynamics within European neurosurgery, despite increasing female participation.