Influencing factors of Chinese male circumcision acceptance willingness: a health belief model approach

Although circumcision has been promoted worldwide, the Chinese male circumcision rate has been far below the world average. By refining the health belief model, we further explored the factors that influence the willingness of Chinese men to be circumcised. This study conducted a sample survey of male willingness to accept circumcision surgery in all provinces of China. Linear regression equation and structural equation model were used to explore the influencing factors of Chinese male-circumcision acceptance willingness. The results showed that trust in the health system and health knowledge were the fundamental factors influencing willingness for male circumcision, related to perceived susceptibility, severity and perceived benefit. However, perceived barriers did not seem to affect Chinese men's willingness to circumcision. This study found that Chinese men's health decisions about whether to undergo circumcision were not only related to perceived susceptibility, perceived benefits, and perceived severity, but also their age, education, and pressure from acquaintances and trust in the health system. Extensive science popularization to the public plays an important role in reducing circumcision hesitation.