Pentagon Orders Testosterone Tests for Male Troops 30 and Older, Offering Therapy for Low Levels
Updated
Updated · Fox News · Sep 3
Pentagon Orders Testosterone Tests for Male Troops 30 and Older, Offering Therapy for Low Levels
3 articles · Updated · Fox News · Sep 3
Summary
Wednesday's Pentagon guidance makes testosterone deficiency screening mandatory immediately for active-duty and reserve men aged 30 and older, while younger men will be tested only on request or if clinicians spot warning signs.
Low-testosterone results can trigger further evaluation and, if clinically appropriate, voluntary hormone replacement therapy; non-medical testosterone use for performance enhancement remains banned.
Women are exempt from routine testosterone blood tests, but the policy adds screening for fatigue, disrupted menstrual cycles and other signs tied to hormonal dysregulation and low-energy availability.
The Pentagon says the standardized pathways will improve readiness, but some endocrinologists argue broad testing lacks evidence of benefit and could lead to unnecessary or harmful treatment.
The policy follows Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth's July authorization of the program, and the FDA plans an expert meeting later this month on testosterone's medical use.