Survey Reveals Shocking Figures, Calling for Urgent Change in Surgical Culture

A recent survey published in the British Journal of Surgery has revealed that nearly one in three female surgeons in the NHS have been sexually assaulted in the past five years. Conducted by the University of Exeter and commissioned by The Working Party on Sexual Misconduct in Surgery, the survey highlights the pervasive issue of sexual misconduct within the surgical profession.

The study, which gathered 1,436 responses, found that 29% of female surgeons had experienced unwanted physical advances while working, while over 40% had been subjected to inappropriate comments about their bodies. Furthermore, 38% reported experiencing sexual banter in the workplace. Alarmingly, 11 participants reported instances of rape.

In addition to these personal experiences, almost 90% of women surveyed said they had witnessed sexual misconduct in their professional environments, with a similar response from male surgeons at 81%. The study concluded that sexual misconduct is rampant and remains largely unchecked due to the hierarchical nature of the surgical field, where gender and power imbalances contribute to an unsafe working environment for both staff and patients.

Tamzin Cuming, Consultant Surgeon and Chair of the Women in Surgery forum at the Royal College of Surgeons of England, described the report as revealing “some of the most appalling facts ever to come out” about surgery. She referred to the findings as a “MeToo moment for surgery,” stressing the need for urgent change within the healthcare system.

Cuming called for an independent investigation into incidents of sexual misconduct and the creation of a national implementation panel to ensure the recommendations from the report are followed through. One of the key recommendations includes the establishment of a formal code of conduct to prevent sexual harassment, a measure that Cuming expressed frustration at having to advocate for.

The findings have been submitted to NHS England, the General Medical Council, and the British Medical Association for further action. The survey has sparked widespread concern, urging immediate reforms to address the unsafe culture within the surgical environment.