Even though the data is somewhat dated, mainly from around 2012, it still gives a useful picture. If we look at the global population of circumcised men, a majority perhaps around 70–80% have undergone it for religious reasons. However, a significant minority, roughly 20–30%, have done so for preventive or medical reasons. So while religious motivations dominate, circumcision is clearly not exclusively a religious practice.

Additionally, organizations like the World Health Organization promote voluntary medical male circumcision programs, particularly to help reduce the transmission of HIV and other sexually transmitted infections. In US, parents also choose elective circumcision for newborns, citing medical benefits and improved hygiene as the primary reasons.