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Article Type

Original Study

Abstract

Objective The aim of the study is to assess awareness among men regarding female genital mutilation (FGM) and practice of circumcision of their daughters. Background FGM is an ancient practice that constitutes an extreme form of discrimination and violation against human rights of female. The prevalence of FGM in Egypt is 91%, and the prevalence of FGM among daughters aged 15–17 years is 74%. Men have an essential role to play in the elimination of violence against women and prevention of FGM, as they play an essential role in decision making regarding circumcision of their daughters. Participants and methods It was a cross-section study. Men who worked in seven governmental schools represented a sample of men working in schools of Benha City, Qaluobia Governorate. Married and unmarried men were included. The sample size was calculated to be 296 males, aged 20–60 years, which was increased to 300. All participants were interviewed using predesigned questionnaire to assess their awareness about different items related to FGM and practicing of circumcision to their daughters. Results This study showed that all participants had heard about FGM. The majority of them had this practice in their families, and 66.7% of them supported the practice. Moreover, this study revealed that the main cause of practicing FGM is tradition. The decision of practicing FGM is made mainly by fathers, and 62% believed that there was no problem regarding uncircumcised women. Approximately half (49%) of the participants believed that men have a role regarding FGM through participation in decision-making process. Three-quarters of participants had daughters, and 63.7% of them had mutilated daughters. Nearly half of those who had no daughters intended to circumcise their future daughters. Conclusion Men have an important role in continuation of FGM. Therefore, program for its prevention should include men in their disciplines, as they play an important role in elimination of circumcision.

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