New cancer vaccine will end routine smear tests

CERVICAL cancer, which kills 300,000 women a year around the world, could be largely prevented by a vaccine, researchers have found.

The first big study of a cervical cancer vaccine has proved 100 per cent successful — a “stunning result”, according to one specialist. The results offer hope that women may be spared the indignity of under-going regular smear tests to detect early signs of the disease.

“We’re breaking out the champagne”, said Eliav Barr, head of clinical development for the drug, which is manufactured by Merck under the name Gardasil. “To have 100 per cent efficacy is something that you have very rarely.”

Read more: New cancer vaccine will end routine smear tests