Use of devices for adult male circumcision in public health HIV prevention programmes:
Conclusions of the WHO Technical Advisory Group on Innovations in Male Circumcision
Overview
The conclusions and recommendations focus on an elastic ring controlled radial compression device for which a series of study data were available at the end of 2011 from one country only (Rwanda). WHO will provide guidance on use of devices for voluntary adult male circumcision when results from more studies on this and other devices become available.
Voluntary adult medical male circumcision reduces heterosexual transmission of HIV from women to men by approximately 60%. In countries that have a high HIV burden and a low proportion of circumcised men, male circumcision is a highly effective HIV prevention intervention available to men. Reaching large numbers of men in these countries with voluntary adult medical male circumcision services requires innovations, including simpler and quicker methods that are safe. Regardless of the method of male circumcision, it should always be provided as part of a comprehensive prevention package including condom promotion, safer sex counseling, HIV testing and counseling and STI management.