A systematic survey of editorial diversity in substance use and addiction journals

Editorial boards influence research priorities, publication decisions, and whose perspectives are represented in scientific literature. Despite the importance of diverse perspectives in substance use and addiction research, the diversity of journal editorial leadership remains poorly characterized. We, therefore, sought to assess editorial diversity among substance use and addiction journals. A systematic survey of journals in substance use and addictions was conducted for the period January 1, 2023 to December 31, 2023. Of the 582 journals screened, data were extracted from 33 journals that met our inclusion criteria. To comprehensively assess diversity across gender, geographic, and country-level income for editorial boards, we employed the Journal Diversity Index (JDI) system. We also assessed the perceived racial background of editors. We used descriptive statistics to summarize results. Among 1738 editorial board members, 57.8% ( n = 1004) were men. White men ( n = 816; 46.9%) were the most represented group, followed by White women ( n = 615; 35.4%). White men were overrepresented in Editor-in-Chief/Executive Editor category compared to other positions. Most ( n = 1640; 94.4%) editorial board members were affiliated with high-income countries, with the largest proportion from the USA ( n = 860; 49.5%), followed by Australia ( n = 191; 11%) and the UK ( n = 157; 9%). Based on JDI scores, 22 of the 33 journals (67%) were rated poor, eight (24%) moderate, two (6%) very poor, and one (3%) good. There is limited diversity among editorial board members of substance use and addiction journals. Monitoring multidimensional diversity metrics and implementing transparent, accountable recruitment and mentoring strategies may help reduce publication inequities and broaden the perspectives represented in substance use research.