Rome, December 12, 2024 – After over 140 years of history, the Italian Society of Internal Medicine (SIMI) has elected its first female president: Professor Cecilia Becattini, a distinguished professor of Internal Medicine at the University of Perugia and director of the School of Specialization in Emergency Medicine. This is a historic milestone for the oldest medical society in Italy, founded in 1887, which had only been led by men until now.
According to current SIMI president Professor Nicola Montano, Becattini’s election is not about gender quotas but rather a recognition of her outstanding career: “Her curriculum speaks for itself—she is the right person for the role.”
A career of international excellence
An expert in venous thromboembolism, Professor Becattini is a globally recognized authority. She is part of the Task Force for the Diagnosis and Management of Acute Pulmonary Embolism of the European Society of Cardiology (ESC) and actively contributes to working groups focused on pulmonary circulation, right ventricular function, aortic diseases, and peripheral artery diseases.
As the deputy editor of the international journal Internal and Emergency Medicine, she has authored numerous scientific articles published in prestigious journals such as the New England Journal of Medicine, Circulation, and the European Heart Journal. Furthermore, she has led impactful international clinical studies, including WARFASA, CARAVAGGIO, and PRO-LAPS II.
Leadership reflecting a changing medical landscape
Professor Becattini’s election reflects a significant shift in healthcare: in Italy, the number of female doctors has long surpassed that of their male counterparts. Within SIMI’s 4,761 members, 1,881 are women. This underscores the growing importance of female contributions to medicine, not just in numbers but also in quality.
An inspiring message for the future
Professor Becattini’s leadership exemplifies how competence and determination can break historical barriers. Her presidency opens new paths for women in medicine, showcasing a leadership founded on merit and excellence.
