Quick, safe and painless, was how a young man participating in a free medical circumcision campaign on Wednesday 3 September described the 15-minute procedure.
Quick, safe and painless, was how a young man participating in a free medical circumcision campaign on Wednesday 3 September described the 15-minute procedure.
He took advantage of the skills of the TB/HIV Care Association, which was performing free medical male circumcision (MMC) at Settlers Hospital this week in an attempt to raise awareness about the advantages of the procedure in the fight against new HIV infections.
Dr Mlungiseleli Mgilane leads the team of 12 clinical staff and six community mobilisers who perform the procedure free of charge in Port Elizabeth and the greater Cacadu District.
“This is a joint partnership with the Department of Health to circumcise a target of at least 4 million South African men by 2016,” Mgilane said.
“According to proven medical research, MMC reduces the chances of HIV infection by up to 60%," he said. He said it also decreased the incidence of urinary tract infections and sexually transmitted diseases, reduced the risk of cervical cancer and improved penile hygiene.
The Association has circumcised about 2 500 males in the Eastern Cape since the programme started in 2012. There have been no reported deaths or adverse effects, in contrast to the dozens of young men in the Eastern Cape who have died even during the last winter initiation season due to unsafe circumcision.
Mgilane warned, however, that circumcision doesn’t prevent HIV transmission — a common misconception among men — and encouraged circumcised males to practice safe sex at all times.
The group also visit schools and universities to raise awareness about the benefits of circumcision in its bid to reach the 4 million target. A participant, who asked not to be named, said the procedure was "quick, safe and painless".
"They took only 15 minutes to sort me out. I know my girlfriend is gonna be happy about this. I wish more men could do it for their partners, too," he said.
The TB/HIV Care Association visits Settlers Hospital once a month to perform this procedure. Mgilane urged interested males between 10-49 years to register with the Hospital.
Those that cannot attend the monthly programme but are interested in the free procedure can contact Mgilane on 082 806 1054 to set up an appointment.
