Current trends in undergraduate medical and dental research: a picture from Pakistan

Abstract BACKGROUND: Initiatives taken over the last few years have led us to the day when most of the medical and dental institutions in the developed countries have established a strong research culture at undergraduate level but the situation is quite the contrary in Pakistan. This study was carried out to investigate the current trends in undergraduate medical and dental research and to highlight the research barriers. METHODS: A cross-sectional study was conducted at six medical and dental colleges of Rawalpindi and Islamabad. A structured questionnaire was used to collect data from 300 students. Results were recorded as percentages. Findings of current survey were compared with those of already reported in literature using chi-square test. RESULTS: Out of 300 students, 206 (68.7%) students had already participated in research as principal researcher, co-researcher or as a research volunteer. Internet was most effective method of publicity of research opportunities reported by 74% of students. Only 36.7% students reported the presence of student research office at their institute. Accessibility to medical and dental journals and availability of research funds were reported by 77.2% and 13.4% of students, respectively. Lack of funding and academic overload were two main research barriers reported by 92.6% and 91.9% of students, respectively. CONCLUSION: The fraction of medical and dental students who are confident that they can plan, conduct and write a research study has increased over last four years. There is an improvement in the availability of research promoting activities but the number of research barriers is still hi

Defeminization of practicing dentists: A national perspective

Madam, The dental profession has witnessed a progressive shift where female dentists are becoming more prevalent in many countries, including Pakistan. This trend, known as the feminization of dentistry1, can be attributed to changing societal and economic perceptions, increased acceptance of diverse gender roles, and the recognition of the benefits of adopting feminine traits in the dental profession.2 In Pakistan, the transition began in the early 1990s when the quota system limiting seats for women in medical and dental schools was abolished. Currently, around 70% of undergraduate dental students in Pakistan are female.2 However, despite the promising number of female dental students, there is a significant drop in postgraduate training and professional practice. Only 5% of graduating female dentists pursue postgraduate training, and only half of the registered female dentists work.3 The reasons for this decline include a glass ceiling effect, which hinders women's advancement in their careers, the lack of female representation in leadership roles, the absence of female mentorship at the postgraduate level, and dual family and domestic responsibilities. Additionally, female dentists may face bias and preference towards their male counterparts in high-status specialities, impacting their promotional opportunities and patient preferences.4,5 Persistence of societal pressure and traditional gender roles also contribute to the dropout rate of female dentists in Pakistan. Many young women are often pressured to prioritize family obligations over professional commitments, leading them to leave the dental profession early. Moreover, the absence of part-time options further limits their ability to balance family responsibilities with dental practice. To address these challenges and enable the sustained involvement of female dentists, several measures are necessary. Increasing female representation in leadership roles, make leadership part of the educational curriculum, providing mentorship opportunities, and establishing strong social support systems for women are crucial. Reforms should also focus on improving ergonomics in dental practice, highlighting cultural loopholes for gender biases, equity issues and implementing policies that support working mothers, such as flexible working hours, adequate maternity leave and family care facilities. While efforts have been made to increase the number of female dental students, there is still a long way to go in creating an inclusive and supportive environment for practicing female dentists in Pakistan. By addressing the root causes of the gender disparity and implementing necessary reforms, Pakistani society can break the glass ceiling and allow future generations of women to contribute fully to the field of dental healthcare