Importance of Circumcission

Introduction

Male circumcision is the removal of the foreskin of the penis. It is very common all over the world, religion, culture or health reasons it limits the spread of HIV. Studies show it significantly reduces men’s chances of getting HIV. Global health organizations recommended it to be included in national HIV prevention programs, it   applies in countries with high rates of HIV infection and low rates of male circumcision, like Namibia.




 
Male circumcision in Namibia

A national assessment of male circumcision in Namibia has recently been conducted and about 20 percent of adult men between 15-49 years in Namibia are circumcised. The rate is highest in Kunene and Omaheke regions (50%   and 57% respectively). 52% of male circumcisions are done by traditional methods. Regions in the north, for example Omusati, Ohangwena, Oshana and Caprivi, have low prevalence of male circumcision (less than 10%).
Additional health benefits of MC for both men and women
Circumcised men have a lower risk of contracting some sexually transmitted infections, especially those that cause ulcers on the genitals, like chancroid (symptoms of which include sores and swelling) and syphilis. Studies have found lower rates of infections of the urinary system in male infants who are circumcised. Circumcision prevents swelling of the head of the penis (balanitis of the glans) and of the foreskin (posthitis). Men who are circumcised do not suffer health problems associated with the foreskin such as phimosis (an inability to pull back the foreskin) or paraphimosis (swelling of the foreskin when pulled back, causing inability to return it to its normal position). Circumcised men do not have to clean under their foreskin, so they may find it easier to maintain cleanliness of the penis. Studies show that female partners of circumcised men have a lower risk of cancer of the cervix. Circumcision is associated with a lower risk of cancer of the penis.

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