Factors Affecting the Practice of Circumcision

• In 1975, the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) stated that there is “no medical indication for routine circumcision of the newborn.” A survey was conducted among Chicago-area pediatricians, obstetricians, and family practitioners to determine what impact this statement had on their approach to circumcision. Hospitals were also surveyed to determine whether the AAP’s statement had caused a change in the frequency of circumcision in area hospitals. Only 49% of the physicians were aware of the AAP’s position. Forty-one percent recommended routine circumcision; 15% recommended against the practice. Age, medical specialty, religious customs, and concerns about hygiene and cancer all appeared to influence the physicians’ approach to circumcision. The frequency of routine circumcision was 70% to 90% and remained unchanged in the three years following the AAP’s statement. (Arch J Dis Child 1982;136:634-636)