the pulse
The Pulse

Vaccinating against cervical cancer

The Pulse looks at the STD that is the second biggest cause of female cancer deaths.

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Each week The Pulse showcases topical stories from around the world and from laboratories working on new cures, vaccines and treatments.

Human Papilloma Virus

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Nearly 80 per cent of cervical cancer cases
are in developing countries

Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) causes cervical cancer and is the second biggest cause of female cancer mortality worldwide.

Over half a million cases of cervical cancer are reported worldwide with nearly 80 per cent in developing countries. A vaccine is now available against the disease.

The Pulse visits Costa Rica where clinical trials are taking place and talks to Dr Loretta Brabin about the controversy surrounding vaccinating young girls against an STD.

Guinea Worm

Scientists are on the verge of eradicating one of the oldest parasites that have been infecting humans for thousands of years – guinea worm.

This will be the first time that humans have succeeded in the planned extinction of an animal from the planet. The Pulse investigates how this is possible.

Watch this episode of The Pulse here:

Part 1:

Part 2:

Episode 3 of The Pulse aired from Monday November 12, 2007


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