VANITY, thy name indeed is woman.

A recent global survey revealed that women in Singapore are more worried about putting on weight (40%) than getting cervical cancer (26%).

Other figures revealed the priorities of the average Singaporean women.

If she was given a windfall, she'd rather spend it on a weekend away (39%), invest it (27%) or on a pampering treat (12%). Spending the cash on a cervical cancer vaccine came in at just 8%.

This is despite the fact that over half (55%) of Singaporean women are worried about developing cervical cancer and the vast majority (86%) understand that Pap smear testing is to check for the early signs of cervical cancer.

Yet over half (59%) of Singaporean women admitted that they do not go for Pap smear tests as frequently as recommended by their doctor. Instead of these vital check-ups, Singaporean women said they were more likely to go for a meeting at work (40%), or dinner with a friend (32%) rather than go for a Pap smear test (10%).

Whilst over half of women in Singapore said they would get vaccinated against cervical cancer, nearly all (92%) of women had not been vaccinated.

The global survey findings were released last Friday at a POCC (Power Over Cervical Cancer) Pink Party held at Zouk to engage young women to protect themselves from cervical cancer. A POCC wristband designed by local celebrity model and designer Celia Teh was also launched at the event to help promote the cervical cancer awareness cause.

Dr Tracey Lim, Vice President of the Society for Colposcopy and Cervical Pathology of Singapore (SCCPS) said, "Missing a Pap smear test could mean for some women that the early signs of cervical cancer are not being picked up. Vaccination alongside screening is the most effective way of preventing cervical cancer. Women should prioritise their cervical health and talk to their doctor."

"Women should protect themselves against cervical cancer. The cancer may require invasive treatment and can cause problems with future pregnancies or even lead to death," said Dr Lim.

Worldwide, cervical cancer kills one woman every two minutes. In Singapore, one woman dies from cervical cancer cancer every five days. It is the only women's cancer that can be prevented through Pap smear screening and vaccination.

For more information about POCC, visit: www.pocc.sg.

Read also:

» Cervical cancer: Myths and Facts

» Fast facts about cervical cancer