MERCK LAUNCHES NATIONAL AD CAMPAIGN FOR CERVICAL CANCER VACCINE
Merck announced a national print, television and online advertising campaign to promote and educate consumers about its cervical cancer vaccine Gardasil.
The "One Less" campaign will focus on getting eligible women to begin the three-part vaccination series and on the importance of regular screenings and doctor visits, Merck said Nov. 13. The ads are meant to inspire women to become "one less" person with cervical cancer, Merck said. The campaign also intends to provide consumers with other information, including that the vaccine does not prevent all types of cervical cancer, the company said.
Merck added that it will continue to support other human papillomavirus (HPV) disease awareness programs and fund organizations that provide information on the disease to diverse audiences, including the underprivileged.
Insurance carriers for about 94 percent of privately insured Americans will pay for the Gardasil vaccine, the company said. Merck also announced a patient assistance program to provide Gardasil and other vaccines for free to uninsured patients over the age of 19 who cannot afford them.
The FDA approved Gardasil, the world's only cervical cancer vaccine, in June. The vaccine prevents cervical cancer and cervical, vulvar and vaginal precancers caused by HPV types 16 and 18. It is also approved to prevent genital warts and low-grade cervical lesions caused by HPV types 6, 11, 16 and 18. Gardasil is currently available in more than 40 countries, Merck said.
Earlier this month, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention added Gardasil to its vaccine program for children ages 9 to 18. The program gives vaccines to children who are Medicaid-eligible, uninsured, underinsured or Native American.