ABSTRACT
OBJECTIVES: To assess parents knowledge of HIV and sexually transmitted infection (STI) reduction through male circumcision, determine their desire to have their newborn son circumcised, and quantify impacts of circumcision procedural awareness. DESIGN AND METHODS: A cross-sectional survey of parents attending public healthcare facilities in Nassau, Bahamas, including a subsection completed after reading a circumcision information pamphlet. RESULTS: 314 mothers and 39 fathers were included. 87.8% were Bahamian and 7.4% Haitian. 97.1% followed Christianity. 7.4% had at least one other circumcised son and 25.7% of parents reported a circumcised father. 15.7% were aware that male circumcision reduces a mans chance of getting HIV and 29.8% knew the procedure reduces STI. 88.5% and 88.4% of Haitians were unaware of male circumcision reducing HIV and STI acquisition, while awareness was greater amongst all those with higher levels of formal education. 55.6% of parents initially opted for neonatal male circumcision - especially circumcised fathers, Bahamian and Jamaican nationals, those who completed at least high school, and those believing male circumcision reduces HIV and STI rates. Improved health, appearance, and hygiene motivated participants more than cultural and religious affiliation. Both parents felt that the decision on neonatal male circumcision should be made in unison. Acceptance rose to 68.0% after reading the information pamphlet on male circumcision. CONCLUSION: Newborn male circumcision is decided on by both parents in most cases with little influence of culture and religion. Information on neonatal male circumcision risks and benefits, including reduction of HIV and STI, lead to an increase in its acceptance.
