Cervical cancer is one of the most preventable cancers, yet screening rates remain low in Singapore. #My1stPapTest by 365 Cancer Prevention Society is back, offering free Pap tests to help more women detect cervical cancer early.
Cervical cancer ranks as the 10th most common cancer among women in Singapore, with over 200 cases diagnosed annually. Despite high awareness, screening rates remain low, many women still delay or skip screening, leading to late-stage detection when treatment is more difficult.
Cervical cancer is one of the most preventable and treatable cancers – but only if caught early. This is why regular screening and HPV vaccinations play a critical role in reducing the incidence of cervical cancer, and saving lives.
To encourage more women to take charge of their cervical health, 365 Cancer Prevention Society (365CPS) has launched their second edition of its #My1stPapTest campaign.
This initiative offers free cervical cancer screenings to eligible women, using the ThinPrep Pap Test, an advanced screening method that improves accuracy and early detection compared to traditional Pap smears.
Cervical Cancer and Its Risks
Cervical cancer is primarily caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV), a sexually transmitted infection that can lead to abnormal cell growth in the cervix.
Most HPV infections clear on their own, but persistent high-risk strains can result in abnormal cell growth in the cervix, which may develop into cancer.
According to Dr Lynette Ngo, Medical Oncologist at Curie Oncology, cervical cancer often presents no symptoms in its early stages.
When symptoms do appear, they may include irregular vaginal bleeding, pain during intercourse, and unusual discharge.
Women with risk factors such as multiple sexual partners, a history of sexually transmitted infections, smoking, or a weakened immune system are more susceptible to developing the disease.
The Importance of Regular Screening
“The only way to know if there are abnormal cells in the cervix that may develop into cervical cancer is to have a cervical screening test.” shared Dr Ngo. As symptoms may not be present, regular screening is even more important.
Through screening tests, pre-cancerous cells can be detected. This makes cervical cancer highly preventable as well.
The ThinPrep Pap Test, used in #My1stPapTest, offers notable advantages over traditional Pap smears.
“The ThinPrep pap test uses liquid-based cytology, where the cells are suspended in a liquid medium, resulting in a more uniform and clear sample for analysis.” noted Dr Ngo. This means there is lower likelihood of false-negative results.
It has also been shown to detect more precancerous and cancerous lesions compared to the conventional Pap test, reducing the risk of misdiagnosis.
Additionally, the ThinPrep Pap Test can be used for both Pap cytology and HPV testing, eliminating the need for separate samples.
About the #My1stPapTest Campaign
365CPS introduced #My1stPapTest last year in response to low screening rates among Singaporean women.
According to Mr Andrew Soh, Assistant Director at 365CPS, a 2019 survey revealed that while 88.5% of women are aware of Pap tests, fewer than half go for screenings regularly.
The campaign aims to bridge this gap and promote preventive healthcare.
“The public reception to the first edition of the #My1stPapTest campaign was very positive, with over 400 registrations and more than 110 individuals were screened.” Mr Andrew recounted. It is clear that many women are willing to prioritise their cervical health when presented with such initiatives.
Encouraged by this response, 365CPS has brought the campaign back for a second year, running from now until March 15, 2025.
“At 365CPS, we find that it is extremely important to raise public awareness and educate the public on how cervical cancer can be highly preventable and treatable when detected at an early stage.” Mr Andrew commented.
Sign up for FREE screening
https://bit.ly/my1stpaptest25
Who Can Get a Free Screening?
Women who meet the eligibility criteria can receive a free ThinPrep Pap Test.
- Women aged 25-69 years old
- Have had engaged in sexual intercourse or is sexually active
- Valid blue or orange CHAS card holder, or Public Assistance Card holder
The screening process is quick and minimally uncomfortable, with results available shortly after. If a participant receives any abnormal results from the screen, they can use the test result to pursue further investigation.
Addressing Common Misconceptions
Many women avoid screening due to myths and misconceptions.
Myth 1: If a person has been vaccinated against HPV, she doesn’t need PAP test screening.
“The HPV vaccine only protects against the most common high-risk HPV but there are about 40 other HPV strains that can cause cervical cancer.” shared Dr Ngo.
Screenings like the pap test remains essential to detect any abnormalities that still develop despite HPV vaccination.
Myth 2: Detecting HPV during screening means I have cervical cancer
HPV is an infection, and as with many viral infections, they can be cleared by the body naturally. Most women clear the infections within 6 months to 2 years, and do not develop cervical cancer.
“It is the persistent infection with the high-risk strains of HPV that leads to cervical cancer.” Dr Ngo added.
Myth 3: Only women with multiple sexual partners get cervical cancer
With sexually-transmitted infections, it just takes one.
Besides, HPV can be transmitted through other ways. “HPV can also be transmitted through the oro-genital route and through sharing of sex toys.” shared Dr Ngo.
How You Can Support the Cause
Raising awareness is key to increasing screening rates and reducing cervical cancer cases.
Members of the public can support #My1stPapTest by sharing the campaign with friends and family to encourage participation.
Donations can also make a significant impact, with contributions helping to fund screenings for women from lower-income backgrounds.
A donation of $30 supports accurate and reliable early detection tests, while $50 covers half the cost of a cervical cancer screening. A $100 donation fully sponsors a screening for a woman in need, providing her with the reassurance of early detection.
Those interested in contributing can visit Giving.sg to support the cause. Additionally, 365CPS continues to engage the public through educational initiatives and online resources to spread awareness.
We Can Play Our Part
Cervical cancer does not have to be a silent killer. Through initiatives like #My1stPapTest, women in Singapore can take proactive steps toward early detection and prevention.
Screening is a simple yet life-saving measure that every eligible woman should consider.
To register for a free screening, visit https://bit.ly/my1stpaptest25 before March 15, 2025. By working together, we can empower women, prevent cervical cancer, and save lives.
