It is said to be the best tool to detect pre-cancerous conditions and hidden, small tumors that may lead to cervical cancer. Cervical cancer has been identified as the second biggest killer cancer in Botswana. Monitor reporter, Baboki Kayawe took to the streets of Gaborone to find out the level of awareness among Batswana women.

Tshotlhe Oabile (18):
"I just know that there is a certain test known as Pap smear. I heard of it from a friend and she told me that it is done in order to clean a woman's reproductive system; but otherwise I don't know much really about it. The scary thing I heard - and maybe this is what is holding me back - is that there is a certain tool, 'tshipi' inserted into one's private parts and that it can be quite painful. I know that cancer is very dangerous and you (Monitor) have made me realise the importance of the test, I will go to the clinic to enquire more about it."

Lethamo Moekhwa (43):
"Pap smear is a test that every woman is suppose to take at least twice a year to detect early symptoms of cervical cancer; which is said to be one of the leading killers in Botswana. I have heard about the test from hospitals and clinics, and I think health workers are doing a great job when it comes to spreading the information about its importance. I have decided to take the test in December this year because this is when I do a number of medical tests."

Jazelle Tshilombo (40):
"Yes, I know that it is vital for a woman to do the test. Five years back I started taking it once yearly, and it has helped me as I am aware of my status and if I have any pre-cancerous conditions they can be detected early and cervical cancer can be prevented. I would like to urge all women to do it."

Onkabetse Kagelelo (19):
"I can't say I know about the test, as I have just heard people talking about it but I never sought to understand what exactly it is and its importance. I hear that it is very painful because the nurses insert something inside. However, that shouldn't be a deterrent."

Wame Tebogo (25):
"My friend told me that this is very painful and I am scared to do it. The other thing I heard is that it takes time for the results to come out. Though I know that cervical cancer, as much as any other type of cancer, is dangerous I haven't gone for a Pap smear yet, but I know it is importance."