The American Academy of Pediatrics released a statement on circumcision

 

Lately, there has been a great deal of discussion regarding circumcision and its connection to sexual health. For example, a recent study from Johns Hopkins University found that declining circumcision rates could add billions to U.S. healthcare costs. That's because studies have shown that when there are fewer  circumcisions, the rate of sexually transmitted infections and HIV increases. Now, the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) has released a new policy statement saying that the health benefits of circumcision far outweigh the potential risks.

The Chicago Tribune published an article on the statement by Sue Hubbard, M.D. According to the doctor, the AAP is not calling for all newborn males to be circumcised, but did recommend that insurance companies cover the procedure in their policies.

"Circumcision has been shown to reduce the risk of sexually-transmitted infections including HIV, syphilis, HPV and genital herpes. Circumcision has also been shown to reduce the risk of penile cancer, as well as cervical cancer in sexual partners. Circumcision also reduces the risk of urinary tract infection in a baby's first year of life," Hubbard wrote for the news source.

The statement also says that the decision of circumcision should still be left up to the parents, and that families have a right to correct and unbiased information regarding the procedure so they can make an informed choice.

Hubbard recommended that parents talk to their doctor about the science behind circumcision before they make a decision. Furthermore, she added that opting for or against this procedure is one of the most important decisions parents will make for their sons, so it's important for people to do their research and not take this decision lightly.