Women in Dermatology: Considerations over Their Recognition and Prominence

Area of Science:

• Dermatology
• Medical Demographics
• Gender Studies in Medicine

Background:

• Dermatology is a leading medical specialty with a significant female presence, as evidenced by 2020 Federal Council of Medicine data.
• In 2020, dermatology specialists numbered 9,078, with women constituting 77.9% and a male/female ratio of 0.28.
• The Brazilian Society of Dermatology (SBD) reports approximately 80% of its associated physicians are women.

Purpose of the Study:

• To analyze the participation of women in Brazilian dermatology.
• To examine the representation of women in leadership positions within the SBD.
• To review available data on gender distribution and leadership in Brazilian dermatology.

Main Methods:

• A literature review was conducted using the PubMed database in May 2022.
• Data from the Brazilian Society of Dermatology (SBD) database were reviewed.
• Demographic data from the Federal Council of Medicine were analyzed.

Main Results:

• Women constitute a significant majority (nearly 80%) of dermatology specialists in Brazil.
• Despite high female participation, the SBD has had 62 directorates since its inception in 1912.
• Of the known directorates, only five (8.62%) were chaired by women, with four unknown.
• A substantial majority (53) of known directorates were presided over by men.

Conclusions:

• While women are the majority in Brazilian dermatology practice, their representation in leadership positions within the SBD is disproportionately low.
• The data indicate a significant gender disparity in the leadership of the Brazilian Society of Dermatology.
• Further investigation into the factors contributing to this underrepresentation is warranted.