Heckenberg A, Druml C. Gender aspects in medical publication - the Wiener klinische Wochenschrift. Wiener Klinische Wochenschrift 2010;122:141-145.
Worldwide, about 50% of students starting medical school are female but a much lower proportion reach leading positions. Looking at manuscripts submitted to the journal Wiener Klinische Wochenschrift from 2002 to 2007, the number of female authors increased to 30% by 2007 (up to 50% in some specialties). However, review papers or invited editorials are rarely authored by female researchers. Furthermore, a small percentage of peer reviewers are female although the quality of their reviews is generally better. Medical journals should play their part in eliminating these gender inequalities.
Worldwide, about 50% of students starting medical school are female but a much lower proportion reach leading positions. Looking at manuscripts submitted to the journal Wiener Klinische Wochenschrift from 2002 to 2007, the number of female authors increased to 30% by 2007 (up to 50% in some specialties). However, review papers or invited editorials are rarely authored by female researchers. Furthermore, a small percentage of peer reviewers are female although the quality of their reviews is generally better. Medical journals should play their part in eliminating these gender inequalities.
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