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Circumcision Basics

Uncircumcised and Circumcised Penis

Circumcision is a procedure during which the foreskin is surgically removed from the penis. It is very common in certain parts of the world, particularly in Africa and the United States. Circumcision is often considered a religious practice, and Christianity, Judaism, and Islam are the main practicing religions. Recent research has found that circumcision can prevent the transmission of HIV, yet health programming encouraging circumcision has been problematic, as many are being circumcised yet continuing to engage in risky behaviors.

Prevalence

Globally, about 30% of all males are circumcised (“Male circumcision: global trends and determinants of prevalence, safety and acceptability,” 2007), with 70% of those males practicing Islam (“Neonatal and child male circumcision: a global review,” 2010).

Global Prevalence of Circumcision

Global Prevalence of Circumcision