Women dermatologists and the Spanish Academy of Dermatology and Venereology (SADV)

Basis  The Spanish Academy of Dermatology and Venereology (SADV) consists of a large majority of Spanish dermatologists. Their track record and history can be considered as parallel to that of female dermatologists. The aim of this study is to determine the role of women in the SADV throughout its history, both in terms of their involvement and their positions of responsibility. Materials and methods  To obtain data, we consulted the SADV archives from the year of its foundation until 2001. We also consulted other Spanish medical societies, receiving responses from three of them. Results  Until 1964, no woman had ever become a member of the SADV. Since then, the percentage began to increase slowly (5.5% in 1975). Over the last decade, their involvement has increased rapidly, reaching 41.34% in 2001. During this time, only 11 women have held positions on the Board of Directors, and in all cases in nonpresidential positions. The percentage of women in paediatrics, ophthalmology and pathologic anatomy is similar. Conclusions  During this time, the number of female dermatologists in the SADV has gradually increased. This increase is, nonetheless, not uniform, with the greatest growth being seen during the last decade. Women in positions of responsibility have been scarce and, to date, there has been no female national president. These results coincide with statistics revealed in other areas of the medical society.