The incidence of HIV, kidney inflammation, syphilis and penile cancer could be reduced by infant male circumcision, according to a study led by Brian Morris, professor of molecular biology at the University of Sydney medical school.
A university statement marking the report’s publication in the Open Journal of Preventive Medicine on 2 March, said the group has formulated an “evidence-based” policy based on the study.
It is suggested that circumcision should be performed in infancy and with local anaesthesia for maximum benefits.
The study also claims that benefits outweigh minor risks by a factor of over 100 to 1.
A controversial figure in Australia, Morris is a vocal advocate of mandatory universal male circumcision. He told the university website the procedure could save lives.
“The costs saved will be enormous, as this policy statement shows that half of uncircumcised males will suffer an adverse medical condition over their lifetime, and many will die as a result of diseases preventable by circumcision,” he said.