Gender equity in radiology and radiology research: a survey by the European Society of Radiology

OBJECTIVES: Gender equity in medicine remains a topic of increasing attention. The aim was to investigate if gender influences the radiology profession, with a focus on career progression, leadership roles, work-life balance, research activity and perceived barriers. MATERIALS AND METHODS: An anonymous online survey consisting of 22 questions was distributed by the European Society of Radiology (ESR) to its members between October and December 2024. The survey covered demographics, work schedules, family responsibilities, career development, leadership roles, research involvement, and perceived personal experiences. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, chi-square test, and rate differences with confidence intervals. Open-ended responses were explored qualitatively using thematic analysis. RESULTS: Among 830 respondents, 657 completed the questionnaire (63.3% female, 35.3% male, 1.3% others). Women more frequently reported caregiving responsibilities beyond childcare (4.1% vs 3%), longer parental leave (46.2% vs 21.5%), and experiences of harassing behaviors at work. Men held a higher proportion of leadership roles (33.2% vs 25.2%). Respondents involved in research were more likely to work > 30% extra hours (47.2% vs 29.0%). Although research activity rates were similar across genders, women more often reported barriers to attending conferences and a lack of protected research time. Career fulfillment increased with age among men but decreased among women. Gender was considered a career disadvantage by 44.5% of women versus 9.5% of men. CONCLUSION: The survey reveals perceived gender disparities in radiology, particularly in leadership access, work conditions, and career satisfaction. Addressing structural barriers and promoting supportive workplace policies are essential to achieving true gender equity in the field. CRITICAL RELEVANCE STATEMENT: Despite improvements in the last few decades, gender inequity remains present in radiology. Variability between geographical regions suggests that key critical areas can be addressed to promote improvement and support a more equitable professional environment. KEY POINTS: Perceived gender disparities in radiology are present across career progression, leadership roles, and work-life balance. Women were significantly more likely than men to perceive gender as a career disadvantage (44.5% vs 9.5%; p < 0.0001 35.0% 95% CI: 28.9 to 41.1). They reported slightly higher caregiving responsibilities and longer parental leave. Structural inequalities impact gender equity in radiology, requiring targeted institutional and cultural changes.