​May is Pap Awareness Month and the BC Cancer Cervix Screening Program is reminding women 25 to 69 to get a Pap test every three years to prevent or detect cervical cancer.  

A Pap test can be a bit uncomfortable but this relatively quick and simple procedure can help prevent cervical cancer. The test is the best way to detect abnormal cells in the cervix that, if treated early, can stop cancer from developing. By having regular Pap tests you can reduce your risk of cervical cancer by 70 per cent.

For Pap Awareness Month, BC Cancer Cervix Screening is launching an online advertising campaign on Facebook called "Screen Time With Your Cervix". The animated campaign will feature a series of text message conversations that cover commonly asked questions about cervix screening, including eligibility, timing, the role of HPV and more. The ads will also be displayed on Skytrain platforms and bus shelters in select BC communities.

Visit screeningbc.ca/pap to see a selection of these ads and to learn more about the importance of cervix screening.

Contact your health care provider and book a Pap test today, and don't forget to remind family and friends to do the same! Pap tests are free for women in BC and only take a few minutes to complete.