Researchers
reported this week that ongoing studies of Merck's
human papillomavirus vaccine Gardasil, which aims to
prevent cervical cancer caused by the virus, offers
long-lasting HPV protection for at least five years,
EuroToday reports. Study subjects receiving the experimental
vaccine were protected against cervical neoplasia and
external lesions, both precursors to cervical cancer,
through the five-year mark of the clinical trial.
Previous study data has shown the vaccine is 100%
effective in blocking infection with HPV strains 16 and 18,
which are responsible for about 70% of all cervical
cancer cases. The Food and Drug Administration is
currently reviewing an application to market Gardasil.
A decision is expected in early June. Cervical cancer is an
AIDS-defining condition for HIV-positive women.
(The Advocate)
