Researchers found Cervarix was up to 90 percent effective in preventing cancer in participants who already had precancerous cervical lesions and 100 percent effective in preventing development of precancerous lesions in other participants. The drug was most effective in preventing HPV types 16 and 18. There are more than 100 different types of HPV. Types 16 and 18 cause nearly 70 percent of cervical cancers.
In addition, the trial has shown Cervarix may offer protection against HPV types 45, 31 and 52, which are responsible for persistent cervical infection.
"The findings are very encouraging because the women in the study are representative of the patients seen by physicians every day in their practice," Jorma Paavonen, the lead investigator, said in a press release. "This provides a strong indication that this vaccine can protect women from the infections that may develop into cervical cancer."
Because the vaccines do not protect against 100 percent of cervical cancers, the ACS stressed the importance of continued regular Pap test screening for sexually active girls and women—even after they are vaccinated.
The ACS recommends routine HPV vaccinations for girls 11 and 12 years old to protect them against HPV infection before they become sexually active. The approved Gardasil vaccine can be given to girls as young as 9 years old and approved is for women up to 26 years of age. According to the ACS, there is currently not enough evidence to recommend universal vaccination of women 19 to 26. The shots are not recommended for women over 26 or males.
Copyright 2007 iVillage Total Health.
