Advancing gender equity in cancer research across north Africa: A comprehensive analysis of women’s role and men’s supportive efforts—Final findings from the GEORGiNA-1 study.

Abstract

9044 Background: Despite limited research on gender inequity in North Africa, this male-dominated region provides a unique context for exploring gender dynamics in academic oncology. The GEORGiNA-1 study (Gender Equity in Oncology Research Group in North Africa) examined the representation of female oncologists in publications, cancer societies, and editorial boards of peer-reviewed journals, while also evaluating the outcomes of a mentorship program aimed at supporting their professional development. Methods: An updated analysis of articles published from 2018 to 2022 was conducted. Data extraction was performed manually using a standardized template, capturing gender and publishing features. Gender representation was further evaluated in leadership roles within oncology societies, editorial boards of regional journals, and through a pilot men-led mentorship program aimed at supporting women in cancer research via training, project development, and academic publishing guidance. Factors associated with gender distribution were studied using Chi-squared and Fished Exact tests as well as logistic regression. Results: A total number of 7,774 publications including 6,142 original articles were analyzed. Females accounted for 50.7% of first authors position. There was a significantly higher percentage of females as first authors in Tunisia (p<0.001). In last author positions, male authors were more prevalent, accounting for 63.5% of publications. Male researchers were found to have significantly higher representation as principal investigators (PIs) (p < 0.001). Female first authors were significantly more likely to collaborate with female co-authors (p < 0.001). Similarly, when females held PI positions, there was a statistically significant increased number of female co-authors (p < 0.001) and female first authors as well (p < 0.001). Female first authors were found to publish significantly more original research (p < 0.001), but they published significantly less original research when holding PI positions (p < 0.001). Additionally, female PIs received significantly less funding (p < 0.001). The percentage of local female speakers at cancer meetings consistently outpaced that of male speakers. Male dominance was evident across most journals. Fifteen female mentees were selected for the mentorship program. Among those who achieved most of the program’s goals (n=12), they produced significant outputs, including an edited book, original studies, reviews, conference abstracts, and multiple poster and oral presentations at oncology meetings. Conclusions: Although women in cancer research seem to hold a fair position in North Africa, barriers such as insufficient funding and limited international collaboration continue to hinder progress toward gender equity.