A review of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) efforts by medical oncology journals

11023 Background: In recent years, there has been a growing awareness of the ongoing structural inequities impacting all facets of academic medicine. Efforts are underway to adopt an intentional and systemic approach to meaningful incorporation of DEI in academia. Here, we review the ongoing efforts by scientific peer-reviewed journals to ensure an equitable publication process, and an inclusive and diverse participation and distribution of oncological research. Methods: Medical oncology journals with the highest impact factor were identified using the SCImago Journal Rank (SJR), a publicly available portal that includes the journals and country scientific indicators developed from the information contained in the Scopus database. 39 Journals in the first ranking quartile (Q1) with the highest impact were identified to have an SJR >2. An online review of journal websites’ content was performed between Jan 8 th – Feb 8 th , 2023, to extract the data available in the accompanying table. Results: 38.5% of journals include a DEI statement on their website. One journal has a dedicated editorial director of equity. Three journals (8%) have a specific online DEI corner highlighting related articles and initiatives. 20% of the journals publicly outlined specific DEI policies, such as formalizing the process for assessment and reporting, and identifying and inviting peer reviewers with DEI expertise. Finally, 20% of journals published limited specific metrics assessing the impact of their DEI efforts, such as data regarding the primary corresponding authors at country and region level in the last five years, and the gender diversity of their editorial boards. Conclusions: Our study highlights the limited publicly available data online regarding ongoing DEI initiatives and dedicated editorial positions in high impact medical oncology journals. It is imperative that we aim for greater intentionality and transparency about such efforts, with reporting of clear and specific impact metrics. In addition, these efforts cannot be performative and must foster a more equitable scholarly publication process, promote accountability, and assist in formulating best practices. Our analysis suggests a clear unmet need and represents a call to action. High impact oncology journals have an opportunity to set the tone for the entire oncology medical community. [Table: see text]