Female Leadership and Representation in Oncology Is an Immense ‘Honor and Responsibility’

Reshma Mahtani, DO

Throughout her career in oncology, Reshma Mahtani, DO, has made it a point to embrace both the respect and responsibilities that come with being a female leader in oncology, opportunities which have allowed her to not only shape cancer care but also champion the advancement of other women in the field.

“Ultimately, I see my role not just as leading a program, but also as helping to shape the future of breast cancer care by fostering collaboration, pushing for progress and research, and ensuring that more women also have the opportunity to rise into leadership positions,” said Mahtani in an interview with OncLive® following her participation as a panelist during the Women in Oncology brunch held during the 42nd Annual Miami Breast Cancer Conference.

During the interview, Mahtani highlighted her passion for oncology practice, emphasized the importance of representation for women in oncology, and provided advice to women starting their careers in the oncology field.

Mahtani is the chief of Breast Medical Oncology at Baptist Health Wellness and Medical Complex in Florida.

OncLive: What inspired you to become a medical oncologist?

Mahtani: I was drawn to medical oncology because of the unique blend of science, innovation, and the deeply personal relationships that are formed with patients. I was also drawn to it because I get bored easily, and oncology is a field where you're never bored because it's constantly evolving. I wanted to be part of advancing treatment while also supporting patients through one of the most challenging times in their lives.

What do you know now as a woman in oncology that you wished you knew at the beginning of your career?

One thing I wish I had known earlier in my career is that being a woman in oncology, especially in a leadership or research role, comes with [both] unique challenges and incredible opportunities. Early on, I often felt the need to prove myself in ways that my male colleagues didn't. Over time, I learned that my perspective, voice, and the ways I connect with patients and colleagues are actually invaluable. It's an invaluable strength, and not something to be downplayed.

I also wish I had known how important it is to build a strong network of mentors and peers, especially other women in medicine. Finding a supportive community has made all the difference in navigating career growth, research, and work-life balance. Lastly, I've learned that advocating for yourself, whether it's for a leadership opportunity, research funding, or work-life integration, is just as important as advocating for your patients.

As a chief of Breast Medical Oncology, what does it mean to have a leadership role in your field?

Being in a leadership role as a woman in oncology is an honor and a responsibility. It means having a seat at the table where decisions are made, not just about patient care, but also about research, mentorship, and the future of our field. It's an opportunity to advocate for innovation and breast cancer treatment, while also supporting the next generation of oncologists, especially women who are navigating a similar path. With that being said, I think it also comes with specific challenges. Medicine and oncology, in particular, have historically been male dominated, and women in leadership roles often have to work harder to be heard and recognized.

Balancing clinical work, research, leadership, and a personal life can also be demanding, but I've learned that surrounding myself with strong mentors—both men and women—and staying true to my values has been key to overcoming these challenges. I would also say that I'm very fortunate because I work at an extremely supportive institution.

From your perspective, has the representation of women in oncology improved over the years?

It has certainly improved over the years, but there's still a lot of progress to be made. When I first started my career, there were fewer women in leadership positions, fewer female voices driving research, and fewer mentors who could provide guidance navigating a career in oncology. As a woman in leadership now, I see more women entering the field, leading clinical trials, holding key leadership roles, and shaping the future of cancer care.

One of the biggest changes has been the growing awareness of the need for mentorship and sponsorship for women in oncology, and I think you can see tangible changes and intentional programs that are now structured. There are more professional networks and leadership initiatives designed to support and elevate women in medicine. There has also been a shift in the work-life balance conversations and acknowledging that career growth and personal life don't have to be mutually exclusive. Of course, there are still challenges, particularly in ensuring that women are equally represented in leadership roles on conference panels and in research funding. The progress is encouraging, but there's still work to be done to ensure we have the same recognition and opportunities for advancement compared with our male colleagues.

What is some advice that you would offer to younger women pursuing their careers in oncology?

My biggest advice is to believe in your value and not to be afraid to take up space. The field can be demanding, but your voice, perspective, and contributions are important. It's crucial to seek out mentors, both women and men, who will support and advocate for you. Don't hesitate to ask for research opportunities or any opportunities, whether in research, leadership, or in clinical practice. Don't feel pressured to fit into any specific mold. There's no one right way to build a career in oncology, whether your passion is patient care, clinical research, education, advocacy, or leadership in any capacity. Carve out your own path and remember that balance is key. Remember to prioritize what matters to you most, and don't feel guilty for setting boundaries and taking time for yourself. It’s helpful to surround yourself with a strong professional network, knowing that those relationships you build with colleagues and mentors will not only help you grow but will sustain you through some inevitable challenges. Oncology is an incredibly rewarding field, but we need more women to continue driving positive change.