In March, EngenderHealth Senior Medical Associates Drs. Mark Barone and Fred Ndede, along with Dr. Philip Li of Weill Cornell Medical College, participated in a study tour to China to learn more about a promising new male circumcision technique.

Recent studies have shown that male circumcision significantly reduces the risk of HIV transmission from women to men. Unfortunately, health professionals in low-resource settings are often poorly trained and equipped to perform the procedure safely. A simple technique developed in China uses a new device that could revolutionize male circumcision. 

Current circumcision techniques take 20–30 minutes to perform, with bleeding common during the procedure, which raises the risk of infection. This new device allows a circumcision to be completed with minimal bleeding, without suturing, and in only 3–5 minutes. Reported complications are few. Because of its simplicity, all health care professionals—not just doctors—potentially could be trained in the technique.

EngenderHealth has a number of adult male circumcision projects underway. If proven safe and effective, this device could contribute to the organization’s work improving the accessibility of male circumcision—particularly in Sub-Saharan Africa.