The Baltimore Sun on Thursday examined the progression of Merck's experimental human papillomavirus vaccine, Gardasil, from development to its pending FDA approval, as well as the surrounding controversy among social conservatives, health experts and groups that oppose abortion rights (Bor, Baltimore Sun, 5/11). Merck in October 2005 announced that Gardasil in clinical trials was 100% effective in preventing infection with HPV strains 16 and 18, which together cause about 70% of cervical cancer cases. The company in February announced that FDA had granted priority review for Gardasil and has said it expects FDA to act on its application by June 8 (Kaiser Daily Women's Health Policy Report, 4/6). "With conservative opposition softening, scientists say [the] vaccine ... appears headed toward government approval for girls as young as nine," according to the Sun. Many social conservative groups initially "raised concerns" that vaccinating youth against HPV would lead to sexual promiscuity, but some "conservative groups, including some on the Christian right," now are voicing their support for the vaccine's approval, the Sun reports. Gene Rudd -- an ob-gyn and associate director of the Christian Medical and Dental Associations, which advocates abstinence until marriage and argues that condom promotion endorses sexual activity -- has said he supports FDA approval of the vaccine, adding, "Where there are diseases out there, the only reasonable way you can protect individuals and society is to be immunized" (Baltimore Sun, 5/11).