Women For Oncology UK

Supported by

The Challenge

Although at least 50% of medical students and doctors are now women, female representation in oncology leadership and academic roles is still lacking.

Data from internationally published research shows:

Women are less likely to be …

…invited speakers at, and board members of, national and international oncology congresses

doi:10.1016/j.annonc.2024.08.1603

…first authors of journal articles in oncology research

doi:10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2021.41344

…leaders in oncology hospitals, treatment centres, or research institutions

doi:10.1016/S0140-6736(23)01701-4

Reasons for this include: differences in perceived capability, and confidence, a lack of female leader role models and rigid leadership or academic roles that do not have flexibility for family life.

Our solution

The women for oncology society UK. This society was formed in September 2024 to tackle these gender inequalities, in conjunction with the Widening Participation Medics Network (WPMN). It was inspired by the European Society of Medical Oncology (ESMO), who have Women For Oncology societies Europe-wide.

We are a group of health care professionals at all training levels including consultants, resident doctors, medical students, and allied healthcare professionals.

Mission

To support and mentor upcoming female oncologists in the UK, encourage balanced gender representation, and create a potential research platform and patient advocacy for cancers disproportionately affecting women.