AIDS-HIV Basic Facts

Basic Facts about male circumcision

Male circumcision is a surgical procedure during which the foreskin is totaly or partialy removed.

Does male circumcision prevent HIV transmission?

Recent studies suggest that male circumcision may reduce the risk of acquiring HIV though sex. This method is not 100% effective and circumcised men can still become infected. In addition, circumcised HIV-positive men can infect their sexual partners.

Male circumcision should not replace other proven methods of prevention, but be considered as a part of a comprehensive of prevention strategy.

News on male cicumcision campaigns

• Bill Gates helps fund mass circumcision programme
• Unprecedented Scale-Up of Voluntary Male Circumcision Begins in Swaziland and Zambia
• Report Estimates Significant Impact Of Widespread Circumcision Effort In Botswana

Resources

• Male circumcision on AIDS & HIV Reference Guide
• UNAIDS info on circumcision