NeonCirc: HIV Prevention for the Next Generation

NeonCirc is a non-profit organization whose sole purpose is to help protect the next generation from HIV infection, starting before childbirth.

We focus on basic, proven methodologies to reduce the risk of HIV infection, such as the perinatal use of ZDV to prevent mother-to-child transmission, neonatal male circumcision to reduce the lifetime risk of infection, and support of well-crafted sexual health awareness programs to arm young men and women with the information they need to exert greater control over their own sexual health.

Our effort is global, but our focus is in those regions of the world with the highest rates of HIV infection.

Why Promote Circumcision for Newborn Boys?

In many parts of the globe, HIV is a huge and growing problem. Death and disability from HIV/AIDS is a cause of great human suffering and economic hardship. Anything that can reduce the risk of HIV infection, particularly in countries with high rates of infection, is worth pursuing. Studies have shown that circumcised men are several times less likely to contract HIV from heterosexual exposure to the virus than their uncircumcised peers. Since the circumcision of infant boys is a simple, low-risk surgical procedure that is already common in many parts of the world, we are advocating it as part of a comprehensive program of HIV prevention.

Although male circumcision may reduce the per exposure risk of female-to-male transmission of HIV, circumcision alone cannot block HIV infection and should be accompanied by formal sexual education programs, including recommendations of abstinence and the use of condoms.

Where Can I Get More Information?

Our News section contains medical bulletins and press releases that can be freely printed and distributed.

Our Links section provides web links to other sites with information relating to neonatal circumcision and the health-protective benefits of circumcision.

What Can I Do to Help?