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Health Canada has given its approval to the first vaccine that can protect women from most cases of cervical cancer.

But the cost, about $400, will likely prove an impediment to its widespread use.

The vaccine, called Gardasil, protects against four types of human papillomavirus, a common sexually transmitted disease that can cause cancer of the cervix, vulva and vagina, and is also the cause of some genital warts....

The original article can found in the Media Doctor archives.

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what we said (Hover the mouse cursor over underlined words for more info)

This relatively well-written article describes the pending Canadian availability of a new vaccine that is expected to reduce the incidence of papilloma virus-associated cervical, vulvar and vaginal cancer. While the information provided is generally accurate, the article lacks some important detail regarding the clinical trials completed and quantitative information on the clinical benefits derived. No information regarding potential harms is provided, and the unknown sustained benefit (including need for boosters) is somewhat under-emphasized. Cost (unqualified) is identified as a significant issue, but no specific reference to cost-benefit (potential or otherwise) is provided. It is critical that readers are aware that the new vaccine augments but does not replace regular Pap tests, and that the vaccine needs to be given before becoming sexually active (and potentially exposed to the virus) to be effective. Credit is given to the author for including these important messages.

Readers interested in analysis of reports of cervical cancer vaccines in the UK should take a look at the report in Hitting the Headlines at:
http://www.nelh.nhs.uk/hth/cervical_cancer_vaccine2.asp

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