U.S. Doctors Endorse Controversial Practice as Canada Reviews Issue

The Canadian Pediatric Society on Monday said it is reviewing new studies of male circumcision ahead of an updated policy statement on the procedure. On Monday, the American Academy of Pediatrics announced its new policy, saying that the medical benefits of newborn male circumcision were greater than its risks. However, the decision should be left to parents, AAP said, citing evidence including prevention of urinary tract infections, penile cancer, and some STDs including HIV. "We want to make sure the evidence that has been generated, which in many instances is not from North America, is applicable to our situation," said CPS President Dr. Richard Stanwick. The new information may help doctors weigh the "medical merits or potential risks" of circumcision, though the "personal decision" lies with parents, Stanwick said. Since 1996, CPS has said newborn circumcision is not medically necessary. A policy update may be issued in six to 12 months, CPS said.

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