Alex Renton argues the case for male circumcision ("So,
would you have your son circumcised?", Observer Woman, last
week). Renton's argument is valid only for the developing
countries in which this research took place. Most European men
are not circumcised but, despite this, have very low rates of
HIV infection. Personally I'd rather give my winkie a good
wash than cut off the top bit. I'm sorry this option is not open
for Mr Renton, but he shouldn't take it out on innocent young
boys who definitely don't deserve to be mutilated.
Daniel Hansson
London SW16
Daniel Hansson
London SW16
As a surgeon, I never discuss operations with a
patient without also mentioning the risks involved. It is,
therefore, irresponsible to write about the benefits of male
circumcision without also mentioning the risks.
Moreover, Alex Renton ignores the issue of consent. Since
babies cannot give consent for themselves, any medical or
surgical intervention performed must be to prevent a disease
that may befall them as a child, thus necessitating that
intervention at an early age. Since newborns do not have sex,
HIV prevention is not a valid reason to perform this operation
at that age.
Dr Anish N Shah
London W14