Merck Sharp and Dohme’s Gardasil supported by review of real-world data

Merck Sharp and Dohme has announced the findings of a systematic review highlighting the positive real-world impact of its human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine Gardasil.

The systematic review of 58 publications assessed the real-world use of the vaccine, with results published at the recent European Research Organization on Genital Infection and Neoplasia congress.

Looking at studies published during the past ten years on the use of Gardasil in routine vaccination programmes in Australia, Europe, North America and New Zealand, the review showed substantial reductions in HPV infections, genital warts, Pap abnormalities and cervical pre-cancers.

Despite this, HPV-related diseases remain a public health issue in both developed and developing nations, underlining the need for a more comprehensive HPV vaccination programme in adolescents.

Dr Jacques Cholat, president of Merck Vaccines, said: "This data reinforces that Gardasil is important in the fight against cervical cancer and certain other HPV-related cancers and diseases."

Gardasil is is approved for use in 132 countries, with more than 208 million doses having been distributed worldwide to date.