Final answer:
In 2008, women received 48% of medical degrees, up from 9% in 1972, reflecting increased participation in higher education and professional fields, but they remain underrepresented at higher levels.
Step-by-step explanation:
In 2008, women received 48% of medical degrees, compared with 9% in 1972. This change over time reflects the broader trend of increasing female participation in higher education and professional fields due to changes in law, culture, and wider access to education for women.
While these statistics show a significant increase in the number of women obtaining medical degrees and advancing in higher education, women still remain underrepresented in many fields of science and medicine, particularly in the higher echelons of academia and professional leadership positions.