By Caitlin Zulewski, Account Manager
Have you seen these? They’re part of CBS Cares, a campaign launched by the CBS Television Network consisting of PSAs featuring talent from many CBS programs. These PSAs have addressed numerous causes, ranging from mental health to breast cancer, autism to the arts, and a plethora of causes in between. And now, apparently, women’s reproductive health.
Both of these ten-second spots feature a male actor telling viewers to give the special women in their lives the gift of a pap smear this holiday season, because pap smears save lives. There are two versions: one for Christmas (“Give her the gift even Santa can’t deliver”) and one for Hanukkah (“Give her the gift that will light up her menorah”).
It’s a great cause, and it’s true: pap smears do save lives.
But is this the right vehicle for that message? I did a quick poll among the women in our office, and most of them find it offensive. (For the record, I think it’s hilarious)
First, both men look as though they’re on the verge of cracking up as they’re delivering their lines.
Second, and I’m being totally candid: while I appreciate my husband taking a vested interest in my health, I don’t really consider a pap smear the best gift he could give me. I think many women would agree with me.
The argument can be made that the ad is successful in its ability to get people to talk about it, but if people don’t take the desired action, what’s the point?
It’s a great cause, and it’s true: pap smears do save lives.
But is this the right vehicle for that message? I did a quick poll among the women in our office, and most of them find it offensive. (For the record, I think it’s hilarious)
First, both men look as though they’re on the verge of cracking up as they’re delivering their lines.
Second, and I’m being totally candid: while I appreciate my husband taking a vested interest in my health, I don’t really consider a pap smear the best gift he could give me. I think many women would agree with me.
The argument can be made that the ad is successful in its ability to get people to talk about it, but if people don’t take the desired action, what’s the point?
