SAFE MALE CIRCUMCISION A CHOICE WORTH MAKING

By Enid Keren Nabumati

The campaign for safe male circumcision, initiated by the ministry of health and endorsed by President Yoweri Museveni has been embraced by various medical facilities in Uganda. This is so because different studies have proven that the practice lowers the risk of HIV infection among men and also promotes penile hygiene.

   Unlike in the past where circumcision was practiced only among religious denominations like the Muslims, tribes like the Gishu and Sabiny among others, it is now a national health concern and cuts across all communities countrywide.

   As compared to the rudimentary methods of circumcision that were used in the cultural arena, which were as primitive as using the same unsterilized blade to cut more than one candidate, and which on many occasions resulted into spread of STDs and other related ailments, the equipment used in medical facilities now is modern and does not pose a very great risk to a patient. The operations are done more carefully to ensure that bleeding is minimal and that the risk of contracting HIV and any other illnesses that could arise from poor hygiene is reduced.

Many young men have decided to take on Safe Male Circumcision 

   A prospective method called Prepex is being researched upon and this, if used, not a single drop of blood is lost. Researchers think that if this method is put in place, it will bolster greater response from the public towards circumcision since one of the greatest fears that most men have is losing blood.

   Despite the fact that the ordinary system of clinical circumcision has received some remarkably positive response, the effectiveness of Prepex is expected to marshal greater response because it reduces on the pain and bleeding experience.

   The campaign is being promoted through advertisements. Medical personnel also do physical outreaches to institutions especially schools to convince the public to take part. Surgeons have also been trained on how to safely carry out the operation. It is also free of charge in government hospitals because it has been facilitated and those who charge for it have their own pecuniary interests.

   Studies show that the earlier one gets circumcised in terms of age, the faster the healing process. Despite the fact that circumcision is not being enforced by the authorities, it is highly advisable that the youth do it in order to promote good health. However, it is no guarantee for them to live recklessly because the protection it offers is not 100% assured.