U.S. Defense Secretary mandates testosterone screening for service members over 30
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The Department of Defense will add testosterone testing to annual health exams for personnel aged 30 and older, with optional therapy for those diagnosed with low levels.
The Pentagon announced that all active-duty service members who are 30 years of age or older will undergo testosterone screening during their routine annual medical examinations. Individuals identified with low testosterone will be offered voluntary testosterone replacement therapy. Personnel younger than 30 may request the test, but it is not required. The department did not clarify whether hormone therapy will be made available to female service members.
The policy is part of a broader effort by the current administration to simplify the prescribing process for testosterone treatments for men. Analysts note that the initiative reflects the secretary’s emphasis on addressing what he describes as a health concern among older troops.
"Our goal is to ensure that service members maintain optimal health and readiness," a Pentagon spokesperson said.
The new requirement has drawn commentary about its implications for military culture, though officials stress that the measure is health-focused rather than a statement on gender norms.