LAUSR

A recent British Junior Cardiologists Association survey demonstrated gender disparity in procedurebased subspecialties within cardiology in the UK. Women form between 4.5% and 7.5% of the interventional cardiology (IC) workforce worldwide 3 and even fewer in electrophysiology (EP): only 6% of female UK cardiology trainees choose EP. Interestingly, female trainees were more likely than males to change their preferred subspecialty during early training, away from intervention and EP, in favour of imaging, heart failure and adult congenital heart disease. Common elements identified in feedback from potential female cardiology trainees are the shortage of visible female role models and mentors, and concerns about worklife balance. 5 In this article, four female cardiologists, who are leaders in their chosen procedurebased specialties, discuss their journeys and give advice to all trainees who may be considering an interventional subspecialty. They were each interviewed by trainees from their chosen subspecialty.