Women in Interventional Radiology in India: Findings from a Nationwide Study

This study aims to characterize the practice of female interventional radiologists (IRs) from India and identify gender-related barriers. It provides insights and baseline data to guide initiatives advancing gender equity and diversity in the specialty.

A cross sectional study of female members of the Indian Society of Vascular and Interventional Radiology (ISVIR) was conducted between February and July 2025. Respondents provided demographic data and perspectives on leadership, work-life balance, gender bias, and career satisfaction. Descriptive analysis and logistic regression identified predictors of career outcomes.

ISVIR registry listed 1,553 members, of whom 163 (10.5%) were women. Of the 95 eligible women, 86 completed the study (86/95, 90.5%). Most respondents (53/86, 61.6%) were in early career stages(0-5 years post-training). Dual practice in diagnostic radiology and IR was common (54/86, 62.8%). Leadership roles were limited (20/86, 23.3%), and 43% (37/86) perceived gender-related barriers. Mentorship was predominantly male (71/86, 82.6%). Gender inequities were reported in salary (22/86, 25.6%), procedural access (49/86, 57%), and patient perceptions (45/86,52.3%). About 55.8% (48/86) reported marital status negatively impacted their careers. Burnout was perceived by 75.6% (65/86) of participants. Early career participants were more likely to leave IR (p = 0.027; OR = 0.293; 95% CI: 0.099-0.870), while seniors reported gender-based discrimination (p = 0.024; OR = 2.625; 95% CI: 1.137-6.062). Despite these challenges, (74/86) 86% described IR as rewarding, and (77/86) 89.6% would choose IR again.

Women represent a minority of the IR workforce in India, with the majority being in training/early career. Mentorship, marital status, salary, procedural access, and patient perceptions were potential gender barriers.