Did you know that one in seven South African women will get cancer during their lives? This could be you, a member of your family or a close friend.

One of the leading causes of cancer deaths in our country is cervical cancer – according to the Medical Research Council, about 3400 women die from this every year. The most upsetting thing about this high incidence of cervical cancer is that it is highly preventable and even curable in its early stages.

I'm on a mission to teach women to value themselves, and their bodies. Remember ladies, you're the only YOU that there is, and your families and friends love you and need you.

Cervical cancer is mostly caused by the human papilloma virus (HPV), which is a very common Sexually Transmitted Infection (STI). High risk factors for HPV include early sexual activity, multiple sexual partners, and smoking.

A lot of women will get HPV during their lives, but HPV doesn't always lead to cervical cancer. This is why it is so important to get regular Pap smears done. I know it's not fun – but it could save your life!

There are a number of government health facilities that offer free screenings for women aged 30, 40 and 50, but according to statistics only 22% of women take advantage of this opportunity. There is another tool in the fight against cervical cancer – a new HPV vaccine came onto the market in 2009 and can be administered to pre-pubescent girls and women up to the age of 26, if they are not already sexually active, but it is only effective for a maximum period of five years.

However, the best way to protect yourself is to live a responsible, sexually healthy lifestyle. Put your needs and safety first! If your man won't wear a condom to protect you, he's not worthy of being your partner.

I recommend that women start going for cervical screening a year after becoming sexually active. I also suggest that women do not become sexually active until after their teens as their cervix is particularly vulnerable during this period.

Ladies, protect yourselves and get tested!

Take our cervical cancer quiz here!

There are a number of places where you can go for cervical cancer screenings. Contact CANSA (+27 11 616 7662) or visit their website to find the nearest screening clinic.