Puerto Rico

Puerto Rico is the smallest and most eastern of the Greater Antilles Islands which include, Cuba, Hispaniola (República Dominicana and Haiti), and Jamaica. Located between the Caribbean Sea and the North Atlantic Ocean, the island enjoys year round summer temperatures with an average annual temperature of 80°F (26°C). The culture of Puerto Rico has been greatly influenced by its history. With the blend of Taino Indians, Spanish and African cultures, comes a melting pot of people and traditions, as well as the impact of the United States political and social exchange into every aspect of life. The primary language is Spanish. An extremely high percentage of children—perhaps as high as 58%, according to a 2018 report—live in poverty and have limited access to health care, healthy foods and educational. NYU Langone Dental Medicine and its health center partners located throughout the island help to ensure equitable and affordable dental care while enhancing and honing the skills of postdoctoral dental practitioners.