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Neurons Created Directly From Skin Cells
alx5000 writes "The Times is running a story about a neurologic breakthrough that could revolutionise treatments for conditions such as Parkinson's disease and Alzheimer's: Neurons have been created directly from skin cells for the first time. Quoting neurobiologist Professor Jack Price: 'This suggests that there are no great rules — you can reprogramme anything into anything else.' The article also points out that this method could work around the ethical issues surrounding embryonic stem-cell research."
They sell the foreskin for use in cosmetics.
There is almost zero correlation. There are just as many studies showing a negative correlation as there are showing a positive one. This is taking ALL studies. Any correlation is MUCH more likely due to the fact that health conscious people are told it's healthier, and therefore choose to do it. Being health-conscious people, their children are less likely to have issues with hygiene, STDs, etc. The converse (less health-conscious people, etc.) is just as true. There is almost zero correlation, correlation does imply causation, but there are much stronger sources of correlation in this case.
Indeed, the foreskin itself is a natural barrier that protects against damage and disease. It keeps the glands on the corona protected (and alive). The glands secret fluids that clean the head of the penis. A circumcised penis has dead glands and a calloused head. This is to say NOTHING off the risks with the actual procedure itself.
It is mutilation. It is a permanent, unnecessary procedure. The only person making the decision should be the one who's attached to the penis. I'd object to any similar practice.