Evidence underpins new VMMC guidance

More than 10 years of further evidence that voluntary medical male circumcision (VMMC) for HIV prevention is having a substantial effect in real-world settings guided the development of new World Health Organization (WHO) guidelines, according to a news release. The updated VMMC guidelines present the latest evidence on the impact and cost-effectiveness of continuing VMMC services as part of combination prevention for men and adolescent boys ages 15 years and older, the safety of the use of prequalified devices to perform male circumcision, and interventions to enhance uptake of VMMC services among men. They also examine factors to consider when deciding whether to offer VMMC to younger adolescent boys (ages 10 to 14 years), including diversity in physical and cognitive development and the capacity to consent. The guidelines outline a framework to guide health systems as they transition from dedicated VMMC services to more integrated, adolescent-focused services designed to sustain high VMMC coverage and address other health care needs (AllAfrica, 21 August 2020).