Gender equity in academic dermatology: Problems aplenty, yet paths ahead

Area of Science:

• Medical research
• Dermatology
• Gender studies

Background:

• Gender equity is crucial in academic medicine, including dermatology.
• Existing disparities affect women's careers in academic dermatology.
• Addressing these inequities is essential for professional development.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the status of gender equity in academic dermatology.
• To identify barriers hindering gender parity.
• To propose strategies for achieving gender parity.

Main Methods:

• Comprehensive literature search across multiple databases.
• Inclusion of reference list and grey literature searches.
• Systematic review of evidence on gender equity in dermatology.

Main Results:

• Gender inequity persists across leadership, salary, editorial roles, publications, presentations, grants, and awards.
• Challenges include pregnancy, disproportionate domestic/childrearing roles, inadequate leave policies, and unconscious bias.
• Despite improvements, significant disparities remain.

Conclusions:

• A multifaceted strategy is required to achieve gender parity in academic dermatology.
• Key strategies include strengthening women's societies, mentorship, leadership training, and advocating for equitable policies.
• Further research and accountability are needed to address persistent gender inequity.