Recent randomized controlled clinical trials in
Africa have demonstrated that
adult male circumcision (MC) efficiently decreases the rate of
HIV, HPV and
HSV-2 infections. Many studies have clearly shown that MC is a simple, safe, and
cost-effective
method for the prevention of
sexually transmitted diseases and
urinary tract infection, and for improving
genital hygiene. While a 30% MC
prevalence exists worldwide, only 5% or less of the
Chinese males have undergone circumcision. In this
review, we
report recent
trends in international MC and
HIV prevention efforts, as well as the potential benefits and importance of promoting MC in
China. We appeal to medical and
public health authorities to pay close
attention to the international experience in MC and
HIV prevention.