Despite growing interest in surgical subspecialties, Black medical students show limited interest in cardiothoracic surgery (CTS), according to a new study in The Annals of Thoracic Surgery.
Key Findings:
- 42% of surveyed Black medical students expressed no interest in CTS; only 25% showed some level of interest.
- Lack of exposure is a major factor—only 16% had shadowed a CT surgeon, despite 56% being open to it.
- 73% view CTS as racially or ethnically biased, with women holding this perception more strongly.
- A 2023 incident involving controversial remarks from a thoracic surgery society president has deepened concerns about the field’s inclusivity.
Core Barriers:
- Scarcity of Black role models and mentors in CTS.
- Perceived bias and discrimination in training environments.
- Difficulty accessing shadowing or mentorship opportunities.
The Path Forward:
Hamzat et al. recommend targeted interventions: boosting exposure, connecting students with CTS mentors, and framing the specialty as a platform to address healthcare disparities.
Follow MEDWIRE.AI for insights on diversity in MedTech and surgery.
