Question: How Can Circumcision Reduce A Man's Risk Of Acquiring HIV?
Answer: The inside of the foreskin is different than the skin on the rest of the penis. Among other distinctions, the tissue there contains many more cells that are susceptible to HIV infection. Furthermore, the foreskin is susceptible to tears and other infections, which can also increase a man’s risk of HIV. When a man is circumcised, his foreskin is removed, and the number of cells that are susceptible to HIV infection is significantly reduced. Circumcision also reduces the risk of many STD infections, including the genital ulcer diseases, which are associated with an increased risk of acquiring HIV. Finally, it has been suggested that the skin on the penile glans may become somewhat toughened in circumcised men, contributing further to reducing their risk of infection.
