We might soon have a vaccine to combat a disease (cervical cancer) that has been haunting the world. The pharmaceutical giant Merck had submitted details of a cervical cancer vaccine, shown to offer protection against 70% of the known types of infection with the human papilloma virus (HPV) to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

Another vaccine, developed by GlaxoSmithKline wound soon be approved for use in Europe and other countries excluding the U.S. The vaccine is believed to be highly effective in preventing cervical cancer. The launch of the vaccine would be associated with few controversies regarding usage, age of administration and indications for the vaccination.

It is hoped that immunization of pre-teen girls would be made mandatory, as the vaccine has been shown to be effective in the induction of immunity, in this specific population. Issues related to promotion of premarital sex as a consequence of vaccination are yet to be resolved. Researchers feel that any therapy that has the potential to prevent cancer should be approved for use, surpassing emotional concerns.

The success of this programme, however, largely depends on sustained efforts. The vaccine is yet to be approved for use in countries, where a poor acknowledgement and acceptance of extramarital sex and premarital sex is still prevalent. The effect of the vaccine on males is yet to be analyzed.

Infection with human papilloma virus is a major risk factor in the development of cervical cancer. In fact, it accounts for 70% of all cervical cancers. Many different viral strains of the HPV exist. The most significant strain related to cervical cancer is subtypes HPV-16 and HPV-18, both of which can be counteracted by the vaccine. The Merck formulation can combat HPV-6 and HPV-11 subtypes.