Knowledge, attitude and behaviour of boys and parents about circumcision.

AIM: To determine the knowledge, attitude and behaviour of parents and previously circumcised early adolescent boys about circumcision.
METHODS: Half of the boys attending the sixth class of the primary school in our city centre and their parents were included in this cross-sectional, descriptive study. Questionnaires were prepared by the authors, which include 38 questions for parents and 25 questions for boys.
RESULTS: Sixty-six per cent of the students were circumcised at the age of 7 years and above, 26% between three and 6 years and 8% below 3 years of age. Forty-two per cent of boys were circumcised by a traditional circumciser and 64% were circumcised at home. Main reasons of circumcision for parents were religious purposes (79%) and health issues (51%). When the boys were asked about their thoughts during circumcision, they mostly stated that 'it was necessary to become a man' (58%) and 'it would hurt much' (50%). Thirty-eight per cent of boys were frightened during circumcision and 46% were worried. Boys circumcised in the 7 years and above age group were most content about their age of circumcision.
CONCLUSIONS: We consider that it is reasonable to wait up to an age at which the child could understand and participate in the decision of the concept and timing of circumcision. ©2013 The Author(s)/Acta Paediatrica ©2013 Foundation Acta Paediatrica.