Health x Wellness
Overcoming Barriers to Cervical Screening with #My1stPapTest
Cervical cancer remains a significant health concern for women in Singapore, yet many continue to delay essential screenings due to fear and lack of awareness. To address this, the 365 Cancer Prevention Society (365CPS) has launched the third edition of its #My1stPapTest campaign, offering free screenings to eligible women from now until 31 March 2026.
According to the Singapore Cancer Registry Annual Report 2023, cervical cancer is the 10th most common cancer among women in Singapore. It is particularly prevalent in younger demographics, ranking as the fourth most common cancer for women aged 30–39 and sixth for those aged 40–49.
The campaign aims to reverse a worrying trend: early-stage diagnoses have declined from 72.0 percent (2003–2007) to 64.8 percent (2013–2017). Early detection is critical, as cervical cancer is highly treatable and often preventable when pre-cancerous abnormalities are caught early.
Breaking Down the Barriers to Screening
Many women avoid Pap tests due to a fear of pain, embarrassment, or anxiety linked to social stigma. 365CPS encourages women to reframe their perspective, viewing health screenings as an empowering act of care for themselves and their families.
To support this mission, the society will host a live educational talk, “Cervical Cancer: Its myths, misconceptions and prevention of the disease,” featuring Dr Lynette Ngo on 28 February 2026 via the 365CPS Facebook Page.
Understanding Your Risk and Symptoms
Cervical cancer often develops slowly and is largely asymptomatic in its early stages. However, several warning signs should not be ignored:
- Unusual Bleeding: Vaginal bleeding after intercourse, between periods, or after menopause.
- Vaginal Discharge: Watery or bloody discharge that may have a foul odour.
- Physical Discomfort: Pelvic pain during sexual intercourse.
Certain factors can increase a woman’s risk of developing the disease, including smoking, having multiple sexual partners, a family history of cervical cancer, or long-term reliance on oral contraceptives.
Advanced Screening Technology: The ThinPrep Pap Test
In addition to regular screening, Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) vaccinations provide another vital layer of protection against the strains of the virus that most commonly cause cancer.
How to Get Involved
Free Screenings: Eligible women aged 25 to 69 who are sexually active and hold a valid blue/orange CHAS card or Public Assistance card can register for a free test at bit.ly/my1stpaptest2026.
Support the Cause: Members of the public can sponsor screenings for low-income women through Giving.sg:
- $30: Supports the campaign’s administrative and processing costs.
- $50: Sponsors half the cost of a critical screening for a woman in need.
- $100: Fully sponsors a screening, providing peace of mind and early detection.
All donations to 365CPS are eligible for 250 percent tax relief.
Image courtesy of 365 Cancer Prevention Society.
