Gender Equity and Workplace Mistreatment in Oncology: Results From a Survey by the Brazilian Society of Clinical Oncology.

Abstract

Purpose: There are no available data concerning gender equity and workplace mistreatment within the field of oncology in Brazil. The Brazilian Society of Clinical Oncology (Sociedade Brasileira de Oncologia Clínica [SBOC]) performed a survey study to present and discuss this subject and gain insights into strategies that would mitigate gender inequities.

Materials and methods: A 24-question survey in Portuguese, assessing demographics, professional context, achievements, workplace mistreatment, parenthood, and gender balance in the workplace, was developed and administered by the SBOC Women's Leadership Committee. SBOC members were invited to participate by e-mail.

Results: Among the 2,125 SBOC members, 146 women (72%) and 56 men (28%) participated in the survey. Approximately 87.5% of men versus 65.5% of women believed that they had equal rights (P < .002) at their workplace. Chiefs of oncology departments were more often men than women (30.4% v 13.7%, P < .006). Furthermore, 60.8% of men versus 85.1% of women (P = .0003) believed that a specific workplace guideline regarding gender equity should exist. Only 29.5% of women versus 98.2% of men (P < .0001) believed that they did not experience gender discrimination throughout their careers. Approximately 50% of women versus 21% of men reported experiencing moral harassment at work (P = .0002), whereas 24% of women and 7% of men reported sexual harassment (P = .005). Multivariable logistic regression confirmed the significant results of univariable analysis when adjusted for age group and holding a department chief position.

Conclusion: Our data show an alarming level of sexual and moral harassment and gender inequity experienced by SBOC members, highlighting the urgent need for programs to address these situations.