Rita Wilson Stresses the Importance of a Second Opinion

Actress Rita Wilson announced this week that she had been diagnosed with breast cancer and urged women who, like herself, had pre-existing conditions that could be warning signs to be proactive about their health and seek second opinions.

Ms. Wilson, the wife of Tom Hanks, said that her initial diagnosis did not turn up cancer. But, according to People magazine, because she had a condition called lobula carcinoma in situ, which is a higher risk for breast cancer, she did not accept the initial diagnosis.

Since her cancer diagnosis, Ms. Wilson has undergone a double mastectomy, or surgery to remove both breasts, and reconstructive surgery.

“As a medical oncologist at an academic medical center, I see many patients seeking a second opinion,” said Myra Barginear, MD, oncologist at the North Shore-LIJ Cancer Institute in New Hyde Park. “This includes not only speaking to a patient and examining a patient, but reviewing imaging (mammograms and sonograms, for example) and pathology. I also often encourage my patients to seek a second opinion. There are many instances where patients have to be their own advocates.”