Circumcision: The Good, the Bad and American Values

Abstract

National statistics estimate that 1.2 million newborn males are circumcised annually in the United States (70% to 80%). Such values as sanctity, equity, fraternity, paternity and liberty affect circumcision rates in America. The value of sanctity allows freedom of religious beliefs and traditions that often overcome medical impetus in decisionmaking with regard to circumcision. A lack in the value of equity allows socioeconomic status and cost to impact whether or not babies are circumcised. The value of fraternity allows individual and population benefits through decreased urinary tract infections and decreased sexually transmitted infection transmission. The value of paternity allows the attempt to protect newborn males, an effort inherent with risk. Circumcision is an elective surgery, and the value of liberty continues to allow Americans to determine their own stance and action regarding circumcision. The use of this procedure must be evaluated on an individual basis. Unbiased, comprehensive preoperative information must be provided to ensure informed decisions. Education is the key toward a decision about the value of circumcision, and health educators play a pivotal role in the informed decision-making process.