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PURPOSE The analysis of gender representation within journal editorial boards is crucial to understanding its potential impact on fostering collaboration among women in the global oncology community and shaping the trajectory of their careers within oncology specialties. Significantly, there exists a gap in data about Low and Middle-Income Countries (LMICs). In this context, our study aimed to assess the presence of women on the editorial boards of cancer journals in LMICs for the year 2023. METHODS We carried out a cross-sectional analysis, obtaining journals through Scimago Journal (Metrics based on Scopus® data as of April 2023) and the World Bank List of Countries Categorized as LMIC (2023). Journals were considered for inclusion if they were currently active, centered on oncology/cancer themes, and publicly disclosed information regarding their editorial board staff. Names and roles of editorial board members were extracted from the respective journals' websites. Members were categorized into senior positions (e.g., editor-in-chief), academic roles (e.g., reviewer), and non-academic positions (e.g., administrative office). The prediction of women's representation was determined based on first names using Genderize.io. RESULTS We included 64 of 66 identified journals and analyzed 2,489 names. 64 Oncology/Cancer journals represented 12 LMICs (China, Egypt, Mexico, Ecuador, Turkey, Serbia, India, Russia, Ukraine, Thailand, Pakistan, and Iran). Women held 12,1% (302/2489) of board positions p < 0.001;95% CI(0.09, 0.14). Women held fewer academic roles (10,8%, 221/2,047) compared to senior 20.4%, 62/304 (p < 0.01) and non-academic roles 13,8%, 19/138 (p = 0.05). CONCLUSION Our research examined the composition of editorial boards in Oncology/Cancer journals from Low or Middle-Income Countries, revealing a persistent underrepresentation of women. The scientific collaboration potential of the female contingent cannot be ignored. Results underscore the importance of implementing regional strategies to promote the advancement of women's careers across various oncology specialties.
Vieira et al. (Mon,) studied this question.