Does Voluntary Medical Male Circumcision Reduce HIV Risk in Men Who Have Sex with Men?

Purpose of review: To review the evidence on the effect of voluntary medical male circumcision (VMMC) on reducing HIV risk among men who have sex with men (MSM) and assess the limitations of available evidence.

Recent findings: Individual studies have shown conflicting results, but recent meta-analyses have consistently suggested that VMMC was associated with 7 to 23% reductions in HIV prevalence or incidence in MSM, particularly among a subgroup of men who predominantly practice insertive role in anal sex. Mathematical models have also suggested a moderate population-level impact of VMMC intervention. All original studies have been observational and are subject to confounding and bias. Randomized clinical trials (RCTs) are needed to provide strong evidence of assessing the efficacy of VMMC on HIV risk among MSM. VMMC is a promising HIV risk reduction tool for MSM. RCTs are needed to evaluate the efficacy of VMMC intervention.