A perspective on controversies over neonatal circumcision.

Controversy continues to surround the issue of male circumcision, especially in the United States. The following report reviews the history of this practice, along with the medical and sociopolitical positions currently espoused. It is our conclusion that, as the safest and most commonly performed surgical procedure in this country, the benefits of posthetomy, which include a reduction in some kinds of cancer and sexually transmitted diseases, well outweigh the risks cited by those who oppose it.