LONDON, March 6 (Xinhua) -- For the first time in history, there are more female doctors than male doctors in the United Kingdom (UK), the General Medical Council (GMC), the independent regulator of doctors, physician associates, and anesthesia associates, announced on Thursday.

As of now, 164,440 women hold a licensed medical practice, making up 50.04 percent of the total, compared with 164,195 men, who represent 49.96 percent, the GMC reported.

"The demographics of the medical workforce are rapidly changing, and that diversity will benefit patients," said Carrie MacEwen, chair of the GMC and a consultant ophthalmologist, calling the shift "a significant milestone."

The proportion of female doctors has increased annually since 2015, largely due to more women enrolling in medical schools. In 2023, 60 percent of UK medical students were female, with the proportion even higher in Northern Ireland at 72 percent.

However, despite reaching overall gender parity, regional and specialty-based disparities remain.

Scotland and Northern Ireland now have more female doctors than male, while men still outnumber women in England and Wales.

Women dominate fields such as pediatrics, obstetrics, and gynecology, while they account for fewer than 17 percent of surgeons. Enditem

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