Navigating the Hispanic Paradox: Disparities in Surgical Oncology Outcomes Among Latino Patients

Objectives This study seeks to highlight specific disparities in surgical oncology among Latino/Hispanic/Spanish+ populations. Our goal is to highlight said disparities and how the Hispanic Paradox phenomenon can obscure reporting in this population. Background The Hispanic Paradox is defined as the outcomes of Latino/Hispanic/Spanish+ populations experiencing better health outcomes despite socioeconomic disadvantages. This phenomenon persists in general oncologic and surgical outcomes. While LHS+ patients do have better outcomes in certain instances, in many cases, statistical generalization contributes to obscure disparities, specifically in surgical cancer care. Methods and Design This review synthesized peer-reviewed research published between 2011-2025. We included studies exploring the mechanisms behind the Hispanic Paradox, such as selective migration, the healthy migrant effect, survival bias, cultural protective factors, and lifestyle practices, and those that analyzed disparities in surgical outcomes among Latinos with breast cancer, hepatocellular carcinoma, and prostate cancer. Studies with ethnicity and origin-specific data, such as those on Puerto Rican, Mexican, and Cuban populations, were prioritized. The Institutional Review Board of the Central University of the Caribbean School of Medicine classified this project as exempt. Conclusions While the Hispanic Paradox implies resilience in health outcomes, it should not obscure real disparities in care. Subgroup-specific research and culturally sensitive interventions are critical to achieving equity in surgical oncology for Latino populations. We were able to demonstrate the need for stratified research to avoid generalizations that contribute to the Hispanic Paradox. Continued investigation into the systemic and cultural drivers of these disparities is essential to develop actionable, equity-focused solutions in clinical care and policy.