TIME Best Inventions 2006

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MEDICINE INVENTIONS

E-MAIL

Good for Girls
Parents who have a hard time talking to their kids about sex should have no problem explaining why a new vaccine to prevent cervical cancer is a must. Designed to immunize adolescents against the sexually transmitted human papillomavirus, a major risk factor for cervical cancer, Gardasil could help save the lives of the estimated 3,700 women nationwide who die of cervical cancer each year. Available for girls ages 9 and up, the three-shot regimen is best taken before the onset of sexual activity--giving parents plenty of time to initiate "the talk."

Inventor: Merck
Availability: Now; $360
To learn more visit gardasil.com

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