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Several readers have written in with questions concerning circumcision. As with many other issues in medicine, this one tends to stir the masses into the avid pro versus con camps. The debate is not limited to the general public -- many doctors disagree over this issue.
The American Academy of Pediatrics recently looked into the issue of circumcision again, and on March 1, 1999 published a new Circumcision Policy Statement. Though it is clear that research shows the potential medical benefits of circumcision the report concludes that these data are not sufficient to recommend routine circumcision of newborn males.
I am a big believer in the parents' right to choose between alternatives when it comes to their child's health. To do so, the parent should be supplied with enough information to make an informed decision. The decision to circumcise is usually made, taking into consideration issues such as personal preference, religion, etc. It is important that medical issues remain a piece of the puzzle when making this decision.
The Medical Pros and Cons
URINARY TRACT INFECTIONS
Certain bacteria, which tend to be the culprits of urinary tract infections (UTIs), easily adhere to the foreskin. This is felt to be the reason why uncircumcised males have approximately a 6 to 10 times greater risk for UTIs. Opponents of routine circumcision point to the fact that these studies may have been flawed. It is generally agreed that the incidence of UTIs during the first year of life are greater in uncircumcised males. Wheter or not this number is significantly higher is debatable.
