Circumcision and HIV

by Alanna Shaikh · 2009-06-04 10:21:00 UTC
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(photo credit: ian_ransley)

Male circumcision reduces HIV transmission in adult males. This is an evidence-based fact, confirmed by a recent Cochrane review. The review found that when adult men are circumcised, their risk of HIV transmission is reduced by 38 to 66 percent over the next 24 months. This is not more effective than using a condom, obviously. But it's one tool in our kit to reduce the spread of HIV.

Circumcision has the support of most global health advocates.  The Clearinghouse on Male Circumcision, a website funded by WHO and the Gates Foundation, advocates for male circumcision "alongside other proven prevention options." They call for advocacy on many levels, "Civil society groups, community leaders, policy-makers, programme managers, HIV-positive women, youth advocates and many other constituencies need to understand the issues and opportunities related to male circumcision."

The question in my mind is what role circumcision should play in anti-AIDS efforts. No one is suggesting that we circumcise infants to fight HIV, and I think that's a good thing. Circumcision should not be routine for babies. There is no reason to cut infant boys too young for informed consent.

For adult men who can make their own choices, though, I have to agree with the general consensus. An adult male can make his own choices about his body. Unlike condoms, circumcision reduces risk without any extra effort before or during intercourse. In a situation as serious as the AIDS pandemic, we have to use every option we have. Circumcision is one of them.

Alanna Shaikh
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