Merck claims its immunization against human papillomavirus strains which cause cervical cancer is overwhelmingly effective (New York Times ). There are more than a quarter of a million cervical cancer deaths a year worldwide, many of them in poorer countries where women do not have access to regular Pap smears that could detect the disease earlier. If this bears up, it could be a momentous health advance — enthusiasts say it could prevent at least 70% of cervical cancer deaths — although women would still need regular screening tests. Now, going beyond questions of clinical efficacy: what is Merck going to charge for the vaccine in the Third World? Would putting in the infrastructure for regular gynecological checkups be a less costly alternative to lining the pockets of Big Pharma? Is there the political will to do so?