Decline in Newborn Male Circumcision Rates in the US from 2012 to 2022

A recent study published in JAMA Pediatrics highlights a significant decrease in the rate of neonatal male circumcision (NMC) across the United States over the past decade. Researchers from Johns Hopkins Medicine and the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health analyzed data from over 1.5 million hospitalizations of male newborns aged 0 to 28 days, spanning from 2012 to 2022. Despite longstanding scientific evidence supporting the health benefits of male circumcision—including reduced penile inflammation, urinary tract infections, and decreased risk of HIV and other sexually transmitted infections—fewer parents are opting for the procedure.

The study reveals a drop in the overall prevalence of circumcisions performed in hospitals from 54.1% in 2012 to 49.3% in 2022. The decline was observed across most demographic groups, including white families—traditionally high in circumcision rates—where the procedure fell by 5.3%. Interestingly, the rates among Black and Hispanic neonates remained relatively stable, at around 66% and 21%, respectively. Conversely, declines were noted among Asian/Pacific Islander and Native American neonates.

Various factors may contribute to this downward trend. The researchers point to increasing parental skepticism towards medical recommendations, possibly fueled by public mistrust and misinformation. Cultural influences also play a role; the Hispanic population, which historically reports lower circumcision rates, is growing rapidly in the US, further decreasing overall figures. Additionally, policy changes such as the discontinuation of Medicaid coverage for neonatal circumcisions in 17 states likely created financial barriers for low-income families.

The study’s findings suggest that socioeconomic status is a significant predictor, with higher-income families and those with private insurance experiencing larger reductions in circumcision rates. These shifts reflect complex social, cultural, and policy-driven dynamics that influence parental decision-making regarding neonatal procedures.

While the health community continues to endorse male circumcision for its proven benefits, the observed decline indicates a need for ongoing education and dialogue to address misconceptions and barriers. Understanding the multifaceted reasons behind this trend is essential for shaping effective public health strategies.

source: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-09-newborn-male-circumcision.html