WASHINGTON (May 12, 2006) — The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) convened a public workshop in Atlanta on May 11 in response to women's deaths from the abortion drug RU-486, also known as "Mifeprex." It was co-sponsored by the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and the National Institutes of Health.

Five American women have died from infections after undergoing RU-486 abortions, and another died from an undiagnosed ruptured ectopic pregnancy. Over 800 others have suffered serious or life-threatening adverse health effects. Women in Canada, Sweden and the United Kingdom have also died after taking RU-486.

Deirdre A. McQuade, Director of Planning and Information at the USCCB Secretariat for Pro-Life Activities, attended the event and observed: "Women seeking elective chemical abortions remain at risk with RU-486 on the market."

"We continue to call for the passage of Holly's Law to temporarily suspend FDA approval of RU-486 while its approval process is reviewed," Ms. McQuade said.

"Holly's Law" (H.R. 1079) is named in memory of Holly Patterson, a young California woman who died from septic shock after undergoing an RU-486 abortion.

"The CDC workshop is a constructive step, but no substitute for the provisions in Holly's Law, as it neither addresses the distinct risks posed by RU-486 nor offers any immediate protection of women's lives," Ms. McQuade said.

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