In a "Voices in Cardiology" sexual harassment series published May 19 in JACC: Case Reports, three articles explore the impact of victim blaming on women in cardiology, the avenues for advocacy and the path towards empowerment.

In an introduction to the series, Julia Grapsa, MD, PhD, FACC, editor-in-chief of JACC: Case Reports, bravely speaks out on the sexual harassment she faced in her career and the predatory pattern of the perpetrator. Despite threats to her career, Grapsa felt "empowered to say 'no,' regardless of the consequences." The ethical code of her mentors and lessons from her father helped her find her voice and take a stand. "We need to be the role models for the younger generations of clinicians, we need to speak out, to establish equality, to promote fairness, and to teach empowerment," she explains.

A separate article evaluates the role of victim blaming in sexual harassment cases and its potential impact on women in cardiology. Christina Mansour, MD, et al., note that the "[victim blaming] attitude marginalizes the survivor and makes it difficult for the victim to come forward and report the problem." They explain that victim blaming could have negative impacts on the physical and psychological health of the survivors, leading to conditions like post-traumatic stress disorder, anxiety and depression. "As a community, we need to foster a safe working environment, promote diversity and inclusion in organizational leadership, and collectively be aware of [victim blaming] as a barrier to ending perpetuating the [victim blaming] culture and sexual harassment," they conclude.

In another article in the series, Kamala P. Tamirisa, MD, FACC, et al., identify several factors that promote sexual harassment in the workplace, including "perceived acceptance for misconduct, hierarchical structures with power differentials, superficial compliance with Title VII or Title IX, a permissive environment, and lack of effective and diverse leadership." They explain that sexual harassment is prevalent in the field and also discuss current protection acts. They note that the College "took active leadership in addressing sexual harassment," including how the ACC Diversity and Inclusion Task Force, made recommendations, including intensified efforts to identify and overcome gender biases toward zero-tolerance policy. "As dedicated educators, clinicians, and researchers, we need to continue to reform to eradicate sexual harassment and discrimination and rebuild a more just and equitable cardiology culture," they conclude.

"Promotion of a culture of inclusion, diversity, and equity in which colleagues will support each other is important to all of us. We hope this series of Voices in Cardiology articles starts some productive conversations on the topic and what we can do to promote such a culture," Grapsa adds.

Clinical Topics: Cardiovascular Care Team

Keywords: Female, Sexual Harassment, Workplace, Sexism

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