In brief
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has introduced a new program that will screen U.S. military personnel for testosterone deficiency, starting with those 30 and older, while younger soldiers can opt in. The initiative seeks to ensure soldiers maintain optimal hormone levels for peak fitness and resilience, and offers voluntary testosterone replacement therapy for those found low. Experts note potential benefits such as increased muscle mass, reduced fatigue, and improved mental health, but also warn of risks including infertility and cardiovascular concerns. FDA changes last month have eased prescribing limits, reflecting a broader national push towards greater access to testosterone for health reasons. This policy underscores the Pentagon’s commitment to the long‑term wellness of its troops.
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth announced today that the U.S. military will begin testing service members for testosterone deficiency with the stated goal of ``restoring and optimizing’’ their capabilities. The program will first target active‑duty and reserve personnel aged 30 and over, while younger soldiers can request testing if desired.
Hegseth explained on state‑of‑the‑art social media platform X that this screening would ensure troops have the right testosterone levels to operate at their absolute best. Those testing low are offered voluntary replacement therapy, although the policy is not intended for performance enhancement or illicit muscle gains.
According to Pentagon spokesperson Sean Parnell, the mandatory screening is effective immediately for all eligible personnel. Parnell said the protocol will create a comprehensive baseline and provide “targeted testosterone therapy, ensuring a healthy, capable, and decisively dominant fighting force.”
U.S. Food & Drug Administration expert panel leader Dr. Mohit Khera told the BBC that men over 30 should get screened because low testosterone is a marker of overall health. Khera described the therapy’s benefits -- increased muscle mass, reduced fat deposition, lower risk of depression, and improved bone density -- while cautioning that it is not for everyone.
He warned that requiring testosterone can render men infertile if they are in reproductive years, and that there may be a theoretical increase in cardiovascular risk. Khera underscored that therapy should be reserved for those with clear medical indications.
The announcement follows a wave of federal moves to ease barriers for medical professionals when prescribing testosterone, with FBI last month removing safety and effectiveness language from product labeling and proposing looser prescribing limits.
The policy aligns with the broader national conversation on hormone health, amid discussions of a “fertility crisis.” Hegseth’s initiative signals the Pentagon’s pledge to provide top‑tier medical care that protects troops’ long‑term health and readiness.
