Understanding male circumcision: insights from a peri-urban community in Maputo City, Mozambique

Background: Circumcision is a protective measure against sexually transmitted infections (STIs), reducing the risk of HIV infection. This study reported coverage of male circumcision and assessed the factors associated with male uncircumcision in a peri-urban area in Maputo City, Mozambique.

Methods: This cross-sectional study of the Health Demographic Surveillance System in the Polana Caniço neighborhood investigated the sociodemographic and behavioral factors associated with uncircumcised males aged 15-49 y from October 2019 to June 2021. Data were collected from an HIV risk factors questionnaire and descriptive analyses conducted comparing self-reported male circumcision status by sociodemographic factors and sexual behaviors. The association was assessed via χ2 tests, and a multivariable logistic regression model was constructed. Adjusted ORs and 95% CIs were reported for factors associated with uncircumcised status.

Results: Of the 3481 males aged 15-49 y who responded to the questionnaire, 79.5% (2766) self-reported being circumcised. The percentage of uncircumcised men steadily increased with age, ranging from 12.4% (95) among males aged 15-19 y to 34.5% (148) of men aged 40-49 y. Men without education or with primary education, as well as those not practicing Islam, were 3-4 times more likely to be uncircumcised. Uncircumcised men were more likely to self-report an STI and a lack of condom use.

Conclusions: Being uncircumcised was associated with not using condoms and having STIs, highlighting the need to further emphasize combination HIV-prevention programs and regular HIV/STI screening. Targeting males with lower education and across religions can help reach those with lower coverage of this effective prevention intervention.