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What percentage of US males are circumcised?


Male circumcision is the surgical removal of the foreskin from the human penis. It is one of the most common procedures in the world, with roughly 30-33% of males circumcised globally. In the United States, circumcision rates are much higher than the global average. Current estimates suggest that around 75-80% of American men are circumcised. This article will explore the prevalence of circumcision among males in the US, looking at the overall circumcision rate as well as differences by region, ethnicity, and other factors.

Overall Circumcision Rate for US Males

According to a 2017 study published in JAMA Pediatrics, the overall circumcision rate for males in the US is around 77%. This rate has declined slightly in recent decades, down from a peak of around 85% in the 1980s. However, circumcision remains very common. The study arrived at the 77% figure by analyzing hospital discharge data from 35 states between 1979 and 2010. The findings revealed that circumcision rates peaked in 1981 at 84.5% of newborn males. By 2010, rates had declined to 76.9% of newborn males – still a majority, but exhibiting a small downward trend over time.

Circumcision Rates by Region

There are some distinct regional differences in circumcision rates across the US:

  • Northeastern states have the lowest rates, averaging around 70%
  • Midwestern states have intermediate rates around 75-80% on average
  • Western states like California have slightly lower rates as well, around 70%
  • Southern states tend to have the highest rates, averaging over 80%

Some of the factors influencing these regional variations may include cultural norms, insurance coverage policies and differences in the racial/ethnic makeup of the population. The West Coast in particular has seen declines in circumcision rates in recent decades.

Circumcision Rates by Ethnicity

There are also notable differences in circumcision rates between ethnic groups:

  • Non-Hispanic whites have the lowest rates, averaging around 66%
  • Hispanic males have intermediate rates around 76%
  • Non-Hispanic blacks have the highest rates at around 91%

These differences likely reflect cultural traditions, as circumcision has been practiced for religious and cultural reasons in some groups more extensively than others. The higher rates among Hispanic and black males contribute to the overall higher average circumcision rates seen in Southern states.

Reasons for Circumcision in the US

So why is male circumcision practiced so widely in the United States when globally only around 30% of men are circumcised? There are a few key reasons:

  • Influence of religious traditions – Judaism and Islam both practice ritual circumcision
  • Belief in potential health benefits – circumcision has been promoted as reducing risk of urinary tract infections, penile cancer and STD transmission
  • Cultural norms – circumcision is seen as more socially acceptable/desirable in the US compared to other countries
  • Insurance coverage – most private and public health plans cover the procedure, making it affordable

These factors have all contributed to the persistence of high circumcision rates in America over the past century. The procedure gained traction in the late 19th/early 20th century and peaked in the 1980s before exhibiting a slight decline more recently. But it remains very common today.

Benefits and Risks of Circumcision

The potential benefits and risks of circumcision have been debated over the years. Here is a quick overview of some of the key considerations:

Potential Benefits

  • Slightly lower risk of urinary tract infections in infancy
  • Much lower risk of contracting HIV and other STDs
  • Very low risk of penile cancer later in life
  • Easier genital hygiene

However, proper safe sex practices and hygiene can help achieve many of these benefits without circumcision.

Potential Risks

  • Pain/discomfort during and after procedure
  • Risk of minor bleeding or infection
  • Rare complications like hemorrhage or deformity

Modern clinical circumcision is very safe, but complications can still occasionally occur. There is also debate around loss of sexual sensitivity due to removing nerve endings in the foreskin.

Circumcision Procedure and Recovery

If parents do choose circumcision for their son, either shortly after birth or later in life, here is a brief overview of what to expect:

  • Performed in hospital shortly after birth or done surgically later in life
  • Local anesthesia used to numb pain
  • Foreskin removed surgically, wound is closed with stitches
  • Healing takes 1-2 weeks
  • Mild discomfort can be managed with over-the-counter pain medication
  • Proper wound care and hygiene important during recovery

Conclusion

In summary, approximately 77% of males in the United States are circumcised, according to the latest data. Circumcision remains very common, driven by religious/cultural tradition, perceived health benefits, and normative social expectations. However, rates have declined slightly from their peak of over 80% in past decades. There is debate around both the risks and benefits of the procedure. If circumcision is chosen, modern techniques make it very safe, with proper aftercare leading to rapid healing in newborns and children. The decision remains a personal one for families.

Region Circumcision Rate
Northeast 70%
Midwest 75-80%
West 70%
South Over 80%
Ethnicity Circumcision Rate
Non-Hispanic whites 66%
Hispanic 76%
Non-Hispanic blacks 91%