Defense Department launches optional testosterone screening for service members over 30
The Pentagon announced a new program to screen active-duty and reserve personnel aged 30 and older for low testosterone, offering voluntary hormone therapy, while the policy’s scope for women remains unclear.
The Department of Defense said it will begin mandatory testosterone screening for all active-duty and reserve service members aged 30 and older, with optional testing for younger personnel. Those found to have low hormone levels may be offered voluntary replacement therapy.
Lloyd Austin explained that the initiative is intended to provide what he described as "the best medical care" for troops and to support long-term health and readiness. He emphasized that the program is not intended for "artificial enhancement."
Pentagon spokesperson Sean Parnell said the protocol will create a baseline for health monitoring and allow targeted therapy to maintain a "healthy, capable" fighting force.
Senator Tammy Duckworth, a former Army National Guard member, urged the department to extend testing to female service members and consider estrogen-based treatment for those entering perimenopause.
Dr. Mohit Khera, who chaired an FDA expert panel on military hormone screening, told the BBC that testosterone is a key indicator of overall health and that many men over 30 could benefit from testing. He cautioned that therapy should only be given to individuals with symptoms, noting potential side effects such as infertility and the need for informed consent.
The Pentagon declined to comment further on whether the program will include women or address hormone therapy specific to female service members.