Story at-a-glance Gardasil's ability to prevent cervical cancer is being questioned, with experts citing a lack of long-term studies proving reduced cancer rates While Gardasil targets specific HPV strains, concerns exist that it allows for the emergence of other harmful strains, thus canceling the vaccine's intended benefits Reports of severe side effects, including heart complications and even deaths, raise serious safety concerns, warranting caution The vaccine's aggressive marketing, despite the proven effectiveness of regular pap smears, suggests Gardasil's benefits have been exaggerated while risks have been downplayed Lawsuits alleging that Merck concealed risks and overstated Gardasil's efficacy are underway, casting doubt on the company's transparency and raising trust issues regarding pharmaceutical marketing