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.
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‎The assessments will take effect immediately, as men aged 30 and above will undergo blood testing for testosterone deficiency during their regular health assessments.
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‎The Defence Health Agency also released guidelines for the tests, which will apply during screenings.
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‎The agency added that service members diagnosed with testosterone deficiency will receive treatment and follow-up tests, including therapeutic measures if needed.
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‎Service members under 30 can also request the tests, or doctors can order them if they identify warning signs that warrant an assessment.
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‎Female service members would be assessed for any symptoms of hormonal dysregulation, which can link to disrupted menstrual cycles.
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‎The measure would help the military determine whether service members need further treatment.
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‎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.
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‎Medical experts have also raised the alarm about the broad testosterone testing, saying it lacks significant evidence of improving combat readiness among service members.
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‎The US Food and Drug Administration said it will hold a meeting later this month with experts to discuss the medical use of testosterone.
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