Hegseth Orders Annual Testosterone Screening for Troops Over 30

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth announced Wednesday that the Department of Defense will screen service members aged 30 and older for testosterone deficiency annually as part of routine health assessments. The program, effective immediately, offers voluntary hormone replacement therapy to troops diagnosed with low testosterone. Hegseth framed the initiative as essential to keeping troops “on the leading edge of lethality” and ensuring optimal performance on modern battlefields.

Who gets tested and when

All active duty and reserve personnel aged 30 and older will undergo mandatory annual testosterone screening as part of their periodic health assessments, according to Pentagon spokesman Sean Parnell. Service members under 30 can opt in voluntarily. Hegseth said the tests will take place during regular health checkups, with no additional appointments required.

Treatment remains voluntary

Troops diagnosed with testosterone deficiency will be offered hormone replacement therapy, but accepting treatment is entirely voluntary. Hegseth emphasized the program is “not about artificial enhancement” but rather “restoring and optimizing your natural capabilities.” The Pentagon declined to specify whether service members who decline recommended treatment would face consequences.

Why the military is doing this

Hegseth cited the demands of modern combat, stating that “the modern battlefield is brutal and unrelenting” and requires “maximum psychological and mental readiness.” Pentagon officials framed the program as part of a commitment to providing “elite medical care” and maintaining physical and mental readiness. The initiative also aims to support troops’ long-term health after they leave the military.

Unanswered questions about female troops

The Pentagon has not clarified whether female service members will be tested or offered estrogen-based therapy as they enter perimenopause. Democratic Senator Tammy Duckworth, an Iraq war veteran and member of the armed services committee, called on Hegseth to make hormone testing available for both men and women. The Defense Department declined to comment beyond Hegseth’s video announcement.

Final Thoughts

Hegseth’s testosterone screening program reflects the Trump administration’s broader push to expand access to hormone therapies. The policy raises questions about testing protocols for female troops and potential long-term medical implications for service members.

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