Pentagon Issues New, Mandatory Testosterone Screening for Active-Duty, Reserve Service Members

The US Pentagon announced on Wednesday that it will begin mandatory testosterone-deficiency screening among active-duty and reserve service personnel aged 30 and above.
‎
‎The assessments will take effect immediately, as men aged 30 and above will undergo blood testing for testosterone deficiency during their regular health assessments.
‎
‎The Defence Health Agency also released guidelines for the tests, which will apply during screenings.
‎
‎The agency added that service members diagnosed with testosterone deficiency will receive treatment and follow-up tests, including therapeutic measures if needed.
‎
‎Service members under 30 can also request the tests, or doctors can order them if they identify warning signs that warrant an assessment.
‎
‎Female service members would be assessed for any symptoms of hormonal dysregulation, which can link to disrupted menstrual cycles.
‎
‎The measure would help the military determine whether service members need further treatment.
‎
‎The development follows defence secretary Pete Hegseth’s July announcement that the U.S. will begin the programme to help troops perform at their best and thrive after their years of service.
‎
‎Medical experts have also raised the alarm about the broad testosterone testing, saying it lacks significant evidence of improving combat readiness among service members.
‎
‎The US Food and Drug Administration said it will hold a meeting later this month with experts to discuss the medical use of testosterone.
‎