Understanding the Socio-Economic & Sexual Behavioural Correlates of Male Circumcision Across Eleven Voluntary Medical Male Circumcision Priority Countries in Southeastern Africa

Below:  Distribution of circumcisions performed by country. Percentage of circumcisions performed by traditional practitioner (or family or friend), health worker (or medical professional), and others

Below:  Rates of age at circumcision by country, by five-year age groups. Percentage of male circumcision performed grouped by age in five-year groups

Individual country results vary widely but alignment was mostly found between unadjusted analyses and multiple logistic regression model. The model found that men who are of the Muslim faith, reside in urban areas, have higher or secondary education attainment, hold professional occupations, and be in the richest wealth quintile are more likely to be circumcised. Circumcision is also positively correlated with lower reports of STIs, safe sexual behaviour, and HIV/AIDS prevention knowledge.

Since the data collected predate VMMC program launch in these countries, results can only indicate baseline associations. However, characteristics of these existing circumcision practices may be utilized for better population targeting and program management to achieve higher impact with this effective prevention strategy.

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