Diversity, equity, and inclusion in interventional radiology: results from a national survey on gender, parenthood, and workplace environment in Italy

INTRODUCTION: Despite growing awareness of diversity, equity, and inclusion, there is a lack of systematic data on discrimination and workplace barriers in Italian interventional radiology. International studies consistently show that inclusive environments enhance healthcare quality, innovation, and sustainability. METHODS: A national cross-sectional survey was distributed to 200 interventional radiology professionals. The questionnaire explored perceptions of equity, experiences of discrimination, reporting practices, LGBTQIA + inclusivity, the impact of parenthood on career, and aspirations for leadership. Data were analysed using chi-square tests and contingency coefficients. RESULTS: Marked disparities emerged. Gender-based discrimination was reported by 49.5 % of women, compared with 12.6 % of men. When discrimination occurred, underreporting was common: 14 % considered reporting unnecessary, 4 % feared retaliation and only 14 % formally reported, often without support. LGBTQIA + participants reported higher rates of negative comments (64 % vs. 4 % among heterosexual participants). Concerns about fertility and long-term effects of radiation exposure were reported by 30 % of respondents. Parenthood has a strong influence on careers, with 62 % of mothers reporting slowed career progression versus 26 % of fathers. Career progression patterns revealed persistent gender asymmetries with 55 % of women versus 29 % of men identifying management as the most difficult career path, while 45 % of men versus 28 % of women considered it the easiest. CONCLUSION: Systemic inequities remain entrenched in Italian interventional radiology. Addressing them requires enforceable equity policies, structured mentorship, inclusive leadership, and bias-awareness programs to ensure equitable and sustainable workplaces. IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE: Promoting equity in interventional radiology requires cultural and organisational change. This requires transparent promotion criteria, family-supportive measures to mitigate parenthood penalty and mentorship programmes for underrepresented groups. Integrating these practices will improve organisational reliability, enhance workforce well-being and align interventional radiology with sustainability and inclusion standards.