But perhaps more damning is that throughout history, circumcision has often been believed to cure a plethora of incurable ailments and HIV may be one of such cases.
In another report Howe says, as a medical procedure, circumcision was first introduced in the 19th century in English-speaking countries as a means of preventing and “curing” masturbation, which was then believed to cause everything from epilepsy, insanity, tuberculosis, spinal paralysis, to hip dysplasia.
But Health minister, Henry Madzorera is sticking to his guns, maintaining that circumcision is an important tool in the fight against HIV and Aids.
“Studies have been carried out that show that circumcision reduces transmission by 60% and this is a significant figure,” he said.
Madzorera said the government had come up with a policy document on circumcision.
When asked about the new researches that have come to light, the minister said he had not seen them, but advised that circumcision should not be used alone but rather in conjunction with other methods.
But others have questioned that if circumcision was to be used in conjunction with other methods, then there was no need for it. Other methods are less painful, less invasive and did not run the risk of harming sexual organs.
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Madzorera said the government would continue to preach abstinence, faithfulness and the use of condoms.
