Circumcision. The uniquely American medical enigma

Abstract

Ritual circumcision of males has been practiced for millennia, but was limited to fewer than 20 per cent of the world's population. About a century ago, only the English-speaking countries adopted non-religious circumcision as a prophylactic or therapeutic panacea for myriad ailments. Since these "health" claims are now known to be unsubstantiated, the English-speaking countries either abandoned the practice or reduced the frequency of its performance; the only exception is the United States. This article examines the background for this enigma and suggests solutions.