Pentagon implements mandatory testosterone testing for male troops aged 30 and older

<p>The Pentagon issued clinical guidelines on September 3, 2026, establishing a mandatory testosterone deficiency screening policy for active-duty and reserve service members aged 30 and older.</p><p>This policy follows Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth's announcement in July authorizing the screening program for troops to ensure they maintain optimal testosterone levels for operational effectiveness.</p><p>Hegseth stated, "Taking care of your long-term health means ensuring you remain strong, resilient and capable — not just for your next deployment, but for the rest of your life, so you can thrive long after you take off the uniform."</p><p>Under the new guidance, which is effective immediately, men aged 30 and older will be required to undergo testosterone blood tests, while younger men will be tested only upon request or if clinicians identify warning signs.</p><p>Men diagnosed with low testosterone levels may receive further evaluation and, if deemed clinically appropriate, may be offered voluntary hormone replacement therapy.</p><p>Testosterone levels naturally increase during puberty and contribute to muscle strength, body hair development, and sperm production. Testosterone levels in men typically begin to decline between the ages of 30 and 40.</p><p>Women will not be required to undergo routine testosterone blood tests, but they will be screened for fatigue and disrupted menstrual cycles, which can be linked to hormonal dysregulation and conditions such as low-energy availability and relative energy deficiency in sport.</p><p>Guidelines have also been established for prescribing off-label testosterone in women, particularly for postmenopausal women experiencing unusually low sexual desire.</p><p>The use of testosterone for non-medical purposes, including performance enhancement without a doctor's prescription, remains prohibited in the military.</p><p>The Pentagon indicated that the standardized screening and treatment pathways for both men and women aim to enhance military readiness by identifying and managing hormonal and energy-availability issues.</p><p>Some endocrinologists and medical experts have expressed concerns that widespread testosterone testing may lead to unnecessary or potentially harmful treatments, citing insufficient evidence to support the effectiveness of universal screening for low testosterone in improving military readiness.</p><p>The Food and Drug Administration plans to hold a meeting later this month with experts to discuss the medical use of testosterone.</p><p><i>Reuters contributed to this report.</i></p>