[Gender inequalities in the Spanish Public Health and Health Administration Society (2000-2009)]

Abstract

Objective: To describe gender inequalities in positions of leadership and scientific recognition in activities carried out by the Spanish Public Health and Health Administration Society (SESPAS), the Spanish Epidemiology Society (SEE) and the Health Economics Association (AES) for 2000-2009.

Methods: We performed a descriptive study of the gender distribution of the boards of directors, scientific and conference organization committees and chairpersons of the SESPAS, SEE and AES. The gender distribution of the editorial board of Gaceta Sanitaria, and of the authors of editorials published in the journal, as well as that of the editors of SESPAS Reports, was also analyzed.

Results: Between 2000 and 2009, there was a slight increase in women's participation in the SESPAS and there was greater gender parity in the SEE. However, representation of women in the AES was low.

Conclusions: The causes of gender inequalities in public health professional societies should continue to be analyzed and actions should be taken to change the present situation.