Abdul Saied Calvino, MD

Dr. Abdul Saied Calvino is a dual board-certified, fellowship-trained surgical oncologist with clinical interests in gastrointestinal and hepatobiliary cancers as well as soft tissue tumors. He is especially interested in developing multidisciplinary cancer care pathways and creating strategies to reduce cancer care disparities — such as culturally tailored screening and navigation programs — to improve early detection and outcomes in underserved populations.

Originally from Panama, he is passionate about health equity. He founded the Surgical Community Outreach Program at Roger Williams Cancer Center, launching a culturally tailored colorectal cancer screening navigation initiative that has delivered life-saving screenings to over 1,000 Hispanic patients in Rhode Island. His work has earned honors, including the John J. Cunningham Award (RIHCA), the RI Department of Health Director’s Award, the American Cancer Society’s Adams Lane Award and the CDC’s Carol Friedman Award. His research continues to advance equity-driven cancer care.

Dr. Saied Calvino’s philosophy of care involves treating each patient as a whole person, not just a diagnosis. He focuses on listening carefully, explaining clearly, employing simple language and making sure patients and families understand their options and feel comfortable asking questions. He believes treatment decisions should be made together, based on the best medical evidence and the patient’s goals.

Outside of his professional life, Dr. Saied Calvino enjoys spending time with family, traveling, and staying active. He also enjoys music, and in his spare time, he plays the alto saxophone. These activities help him stay grounded and bring balance to the intensity of surgical oncology.