Damilola Alexander Jesuyajolu1, Charles Arinze Okeke2, Otomi Obuh3. 1. Surgery Department, First Graceland Hospitals, Km 43, Lekki-Epe Expressway, Abijo-Ajah, Lagos, Nigeria. djesuyajolu@gmail.com. 2. Surgery Department, EYN Primary Healthcare Center Mubi, Kwarhi, Hong, Adamawa State, Nigeria. 3. Surgery Department, University of Benin Teaching Hospital, Benin, Nigeria.
Abstract
BACKGROUND: There are many challenges faced by female surgeons in Africa. These challenges, when brought to the forefront, can be tackled by the necessary stakeholders to increase the participation of women in surgery. This paper will review the existing literature, across the African continent, to bring to light the challenges experienced by women currently practicing as surgeons. METHODS: We conducted a search using keywords 'Challenges' 'Female' 'Surgeon' 'Africa' and 'Bias' on PubMed, Google Scholar, and AJOL from inception till the 21st of January 2022. We then searched the same keywords on the Google search engine in addition to the names of each of the 54 African countries. RESULTS: We followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) in conducting this systematic review. Out of the 10 published papers that were deemed eligible, four (n = 4) originated from South Africa. Other countries that were represented include Nigeria, Rwanda, Zimbabwe and Ghana. 8 of the articles were cross-sectional studies. Underrepresentation was the most common challenge (n = 4 articles). Disrespect from colleagues, poor work-life balance, harassment, and stereotypes were also challenges identified in these articles. CONCLUSION: Despite the increasing participation, female surgeons continue to face different challenges ranging from the unfavorable work environment to the pressures put on them by society. This narrative review serves as a stimulant for major health stakeholders in Global surgery to promote gender inclusivity in the African surgical workforce.
BACKGROUND: There are many challenges faced by female surgeons in Africa. These challenges, when brought to the forefront, can be tackled by the necessary stakeholders to increase the participation of women in surgery. This paper will review the existing literature, across the African continent, to bring to light the challenges experienced by women currently practicing as surgeons. METHODS: We conducted a search using keywords 'Challenges' 'Female' 'Surgeon' 'Africa' and 'Bias' on PubMed, Google Scholar, and AJOL from inception till the 21st of January 2022. We then searched the same keywords on the Google search engine in addition to the names of each of the 54 African countries. RESULTS: We followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) in conducting this systematic review. Out of the 10 published papers that were deemed eligible, four (n = 4) originated from South Africa. Other countries that were represented include Nigeria, Rwanda, Zimbabwe and Ghana. 8 of the articles were cross-sectional studies. Underrepresentation was the most common challenge (n = 4 articles). Disrespect from colleagues, poor work-life balance, harassment, and stereotypes were also challenges identified in these articles. CONCLUSION: Despite the increasing participation, female surgeons continue to face different challenges ranging from the unfavorable work environment to the pressures put on them by society. This narrative review serves as a stimulant for major health stakeholders in Global surgery to promote gender inclusivity in the African surgical workforce.
Authors: Marguerite Hoyler; Samuel R G Finlayson; Craig D McClain; John G Meara; Lars Hagander Journal: World J Surg Date: 2014-02 Impact factor: 3.352
Authors: Laura J Linscheid; Emma B Holliday; Awad Ahmed; Jeremy S Somerson; Summer Hanson; Reshma Jagsi; Curtiland Deville Journal: PLoS One Date: 2020-12-16 Impact factor: 3.240