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ASTRO statement on recent SCOTUS ruling on affirmative action

ARLINGTON, Va., July 6, 2023

The U.S. Supreme Court’s recent ruling on affirmative action comes at a time when we need to better diversify the oncology workforce. The American Society for Radiation Oncology (ASTRO) has been – and continues to be – committed to the recruitment, training and retention of a diverse group of radiation oncologists to meet the health care needs of patients and address cancer health disparities. We believe firmly that the physician community should be a reflection of the patient population we serve. Currently, only 2.3% of practicing oncologists self-identify as Black or African American, 5.8% self-identify as Hispanic and even fewer identify as indigenous. Any impediments to creating a stronger, more diverse workforce will exacerbate health inequities. We strongly support the cultivation of a more diverse workforce and will continue to seek ways to expand our physician community and amplify underrepresented voices.

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