Introduction
Circumcision is a topic that has long - standing cultural, religious, and medical implications. In New York City, a bustling metropolis with a diverse population, the situation of circumcision is also complex. This article aims to explore the possible ranking of areola circumcision (it should be noted that the common form is penile circumcision, and areola circumcision is a very rare concept in common discussions. Here, we assume the main focus is penile circumcision for the sake of a valid analysis) in New York City, delving into the influencing factors, historical trends, and comparing it with other regions.
Understanding Circumcision
Circumcision, most commonly referring to the removal of the foreskin from the human penis, can be an elective surgery usually done on babies and children for cultural or religious reasons. In certain cases, it may also be performed as a treatment for chronic urinary tract infections (UTIs) and other medical conditions.
However, circumcision is not without controversy. Ethical and legal questions surround the informed consent and human rights of circumcising babies and children. Some of the world's major medical organizations believe that elective circumcision has certain health benefits that outweigh the relatively small risks associated with the procedure. For example, new evidence shows that the foreskin can trap HIV, as well as other bacteria and viruses that can cause sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and other infections, and circumcision can make sex safer and help prevent HIV and STIs. On the other hand, some organizations consider elective circumcision to have no benefits and significant risks.
Circumcision in the United States: A National Overview
Historically, the United States has had relatively high circumcision rates compared to other industrialized nations. In 1965, as many as 85% of male newborns were circumcised. But over the past half - century, the rate has steadily declined, especially with the increase in immigration from countries where circumcision is not common. In 2011, the nationwide inpatient sample reported by U.S. hospitals put the newborn males' circumcision rate at 57%.
Circumcision rates vary significantly by state. The highest rates are in the Midwest, with states like West Virginia, Kentucky, Michigan, Ohio, Indiana, Iowa, and Wisconsin having circumcision rates above 80%. The lowest rates are in the West, with California, Oregon, Arizona, Nevada, and Washington all reporting rates below 25%. In 2024, New York State had a circumcision rate of 58% for newborn males born in hospitals and circumcised before initial discharge.
The following table shows the circumcision rates of some states in 2024:
State | Circumcision Rate |
---|---|
West Virginia | 91% |
Kentucky | 86% |
Michigan | 84% |
Ohio | 84% |
Indiana | 83% |
Iowa | 81% |
Wisconsin | 81% |
Pennsylvania | 79% |
Hawaii | 77% |
North Dakota | 77% |
South Dakota | 77% |
New Hampshire | 76% |
Missouri | 75% |
Nebraska | 75% |
Oklahoma | 75% |
Rhode Island | 75% |
Tennessee | 74% |
Virginia | 74% |
Kansas | 73% |
Wyoming | 73% |
Georgia | 72% |
South Carolina | 72% |
Connecticut | 71% |
Maine | 70% |
Arkansas | 67% |
Vermont | 67% |
Maryland | 66% |
Massachusetts | 65% |
New Jersey | 65% |
Illinois | 63% |
Minnesota | 59% |
New York | 58% |
Colorado | 56% |
Texas | 51% |
Montana | 50% |
North Carolina | 50% |
New Mexico | 47% |
Louisiana | 45% |
Utah | 33% |
Florida | 31% |
California | 23% |
Oregon | 17% |
Arizona | 16% |
Nevada | 10% |
Washington | 10% |
Circumcision in New York City
Within New York State, New York City presents a unique situation. In 2006, a minority of male New York City newborns were circumcised, with a rate of 43.4%. The rate in New York City is lower compared to the state average of 58% in 2024. This could be due to several factors.
One significant factor is the high - density and diverse population of New York City. The city is a melting pot of different ethnicities and cultures. For example, Hispanic people are much less likely to circumcise their sons than black or white people. With a large Hispanic population in New York City, this has an impact on the overall circumcision rate.
Another factor is the difference between public and private hospitals. Historically, circumcision was more common in private hospitals than in public hospitals in New York State. Since New York City has a large number of public hospital facilities, this can also contribute to the relatively lower circumcision rate.
Looking at religious factors, while Judaism and Islam both have religious traditions of circumcision, the overall population in New York City is a complex mix. There are also many people from non - circumcision - practicing religions and cultures, which further affects the circumcision rate.
Comparison and Ranking in the Context of the United States
When comparing New York City's circumcision rate with other major cities and regions in the United States, it is evident that it ranks relatively low. For instance, cities in the Midwest with high circumcision rates far exceed New York City's rate. Among the states, New York State itself has a mid - level ranking in terms of circumcision rates, and New York City within the state has an even lower rate compared to other areas of the state.
However, it is difficult to precisely rank New York City compared to all other cities in the United States because comprehensive and up - to - date city - level data is not readily available. Most of the data is at the state level. But based on the general understanding of population demographics, hospital practices, and cultural diversity, we can infer that New York City is likely in the lower - ranked group among major cities for circumcision rates.
Adult Circumcision in New York City
In addition to newborn circumcision, adult circumcision is also a service available in New York City. There are experienced urologists, such as Dr. Alex Shteynshlyuger, who perform adult circumcision and circumcision revision. Adult men may choose circumcision for various reasons, including hygienic reasons, cosmetic or aesthetic reasons to improve the appearance, to relieve pain or discomfort in the penis during sex or with erections, or to treat medical conditions like phimosis (foreskin that does not pull back), severe balanitis xerotica obliterans (BXO).
New York Urology Specialists offers several options for adult circumcision. They have same - day virtual video appointments and in - person appointments. They are also the first in the United States to offer innovative Shang ring circumcision, which is faster than traditional circumcision and associated with a shorter recovery and fewer side effects for many men. They can perform circumcision under local anesthesia or full sedation anesthesia, with same - day surgery only available under local anesthesia.
Religious Circumcision Services in New York City
Religious circumcision, especially Jewish bris milah and Muslim khitan circumcision, has a long - standing tradition in New York City. Rabbi Nechemia Markovits M.B., a top - rated mohel certified since 1986, offers circumcision services for all ages in the NYC tri - state area and beyond. He has over 35 years of experience in performing both neonatal and adult circumcision. He provides safe and caring cosmetic circumcision services and specializes in Jewish and Muslim circumcision rituals, while also tailoring services to families of all faiths.
Clients can choose from in - clinic or home circumcision services, providing flexibility. He also offers treatment for adult phimosis. His services are known for their precision, speed, and pain - free experience, with the actual procedure often taking seconds compared to a medical circumcision that may take twenty minutes or longer when performed by a doctor in a hospital.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the circumcision situation in New York City is complex and influenced by a variety of factors including cultural diversity, hospital type, and religious practices. Based on available data, New York City likely ranks relatively low in terms of circumcision rates among major cities in the United States. While the overall circumcision rate has been in a declining trend in the United States over the past decades, the city's unique population characteristics further contribute to its relatively lower rate.
If you are interested in learning more about circumcision in New York City, whether for religious, medical, or cultural reasons, we encourage you to consult with relevant professionals such as urologists or religious leaders. You can also explore further by seeking more in - depth research on this topic, and share this article with others who might be interested in this subject matter.