Q. I don’t feel I need to get mammograms because I don’t have a family history of breast cancer.

A. I am glad breast cancer does not run in your family, but I still think you need yearly mammograms for one big reason: Seventy-five percent of women who get breast cancer have no risk factors. The idea that it does not run in your family might make you feel better, but it is unfortunately not a safety valve. Most cancers are just bad luck, and for best results, you want to catch them early.

Q. A friend of mine was told by her doctor that it is OK to skip years in between getting mammograms, but my doctor told me that was a bad idea. Who do I believe?

A. I believe skipping years is bad advice and so do most credible medical societies who have reviewed the scientific literature and randomized medical trials regarding the risks and benefits of mammography, such as the American Cancer Society, the American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology, the American College of Surgeons, and the Society of Breast Imaging. The radiation risks associated with getting a mammogram are almost zero, and the benefits of early detection are bountiful. We recommend getting yearly mammograms because this can help reduce mortality from breast cancer by as much as 64 percent. Friends don’t let friends skip years.

Michael J. Ulissey, M.D., is a partner at the Breast Diagnostic Centers of Auburn and Federal Way. He received his medical degree from Texas A&M University, College of Medicine and subsequently served as a physician in the U.S. Navy. His career since has been a mix of private practice, academic teaching and research in the fields of breast imaging, breast cancer and early detection. In addition to taking care of patients locally, he continues to participate in research as an Adjunct Professor at the University of Texas Health Sciences Center. You can reach him at Mike@breastdiagnostic.com.