Diversity in Abdominal Radiology: A Decade-Long Review of Gender, Racial, and Ethnic Representation Among Fellows

Purpose: Diversity in radiology subspecialties is vital to improving patient outcomes and advancing healthcare equity. Abdominal Radiology provides essential diagnostic and procedural care across a broad clinical population. However, Abdominal Radiology remains one of the least diverse radiology subspecialties, with persistent gender and racial disparities among trainees. This study examines gender, racial, and ethnic representation among Abdominal Radiology fellows in ACGME-accredited programs over the past decade.

Methods/Materials: Data were collected from the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME) Data Resource Books for academic years 2014–2015 through 2023–2024. Self-reported gender and race/ethnicity distributions were extracted. Descriptive statistics were used to analyze trends. Underrepresented in medicine (URM) status was defined as Hispanic/Latino, Black/African American, American Indian/Alaskan Native, and Native Hawaiian/Pacific Islander.

Results: A total of 468 fellows were identified. Overall, 319 (68.2%) were male, 140 (29.9%) female, and 9 (1.9%) did not report gender. Of fellows, 203 (43.4%) identified as White, 109 (23.3%) as Asian, and 31 (6.6%) as URM. Racial/ethnic unknown status accounted for 75 fellows (16%). No clear upward trend in female or URM representation was observed over the decade.

Conclusions: Despite national efforts to improve diversity, abdominal radiology fellowships show persistent underrepresentation of women and URM trainees. Addressing these gaps require targeted interventions including structured mentorship programs, early exposure initiatives, holistic application reviews, and more leadership opportunities for URM candidates. Enhancing diversity within Abdominal Radiology will help foster a more diverse future workforce that more reflects the patient population which is crucial to improving health equity.