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Disparities in training and education among young breast surgeons: a nationwide survey in China
Ying Xu1, Junying Huang1, Daheng Xian1
1Department of Breast Surgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College & Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, 100730, China.
Background:
In China, breast surgery training lacks standardization due to regional disparities and its short establishment time. This variability in curricula and competencies threatens surgical consistency, treatment outcomes, and implementation of advanced multidisciplinary strategies. We performed a national survey to evaluate the backgrounds, experience, and education requirements of young breast surgeons in China.
Methods:
An online questionnaire survey targeting young breast surgeons (< 40 years old) was conducted from April 18 to May 2, 2024. Data on baseline information, academic background, department status, previous training, surgery experience, research involvements, and continuing education requirements were collected.
Results:
A total of 240 valid responses from 69 hospitals were gathered. Compared with surgeons in western China, those in eastern China had more training opportunities (covering breast surgery, breast cancer surgery, participation in operations, breast surgery training, mentorship, and publications), whereas those in the west had less access to specialized education. These training opportunities varied among surgeons of different sexes and educational backgrounds. The top three preferences for continuing education were research projects, endoscopic training, and English Writing Guidance (with 146, 117, and 106 person-times choosing, respectively).
Conclusions:
Our results preliminarily revealed significant disparities in educational backgrounds and continuing education interests among surgeons of different sexes and academic degrees across regions. Targeted standardized training models and special education programs for breast diseases, applicable on a national level are warranted with attention to regional disparities.
