Experiences and perceptions of sexism in dementia research careers: A global cross-sectional survey

INTRODUCTION Sexism is prevalent in academia and is a crucial factor driving women out of the academic workforce. However, sexism in dementia research remains underexplored. This study aimed to understand the perceptions and experiences of early-career dementia researchers (ECDRs) with sexism in the field. METHODS In September/October 2021, a global online survey was conducted targeting ECDRs. The survey assessed their career experiences, including sexism, and was distributed through networks, social media, and e-mail lists. Responses were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics. RESULTS Of the 345 respondents, more than half of the female ECDRs (52%) reported facing sexism in their careers, ranging from overt discrimination to subtle biases. Experiences varied by career stage and location, and many ECDRs reported a lack of institutional support. DISCUSSION These findings reveal the prevalent nature of sexism in dementia research and highlight the need for targeted interventions to foster a more inclusive research environment.