Male circumcision: ritual, science and responsibility.

INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVES: In Italy, four minors have died in the last year as a result of male circumcision (MC) procedures performed for cultural and religious reasons by unqualified persons in unhygienic conditions.

RESULTS AND DISCUSSION: After illustrating the historical and ethical outlines of the moral admissibility of MC within a comparative perspective, we examine the features of the Italian healthcare system with particular regard both to the heterogeneity of services available in the various Regions and to the risks engendered by excluding MC from the public health setting.

CONCLUSION: In order to adequately safeguard public health, particularly that of minors, there is a pressing need for thorough discussion of whether the National Health Service should perform MC on minors free of charge or, at least, for a reduced fee. The implementation of targeted campaigns may raise awareness of the importance of proper safety measures in MC.