Worried about vaccine fears

The article [“Gardasil Vaccine Doubts Grow,” Aug. 11] is irresponsible and grossly misleading. It will scare parents away from potentially lifesaving protection against cervical cancer (and genital warts) for their daughters.

Of course “some doctors and parents” have concerns -- it would be impossible to get unanimity on any medical topic. But all pediatric and vaccine experts, as well as all federal health officials, advocate vaccination of preteen and young teen girls against human papilloma virus.

Pap smears are useful, and cervical cancer is indeed worse in developing countries, but the simple truth remains: HPV vaccine is safe and effective.

Dr. Gilbert Ross,

Medical director, American Council on Science and Health

New York