Study indicates up to 25% of Army members may test for low testosterone

A study published in JAMA indicates that up to 25% of active-duty Army members could receive a low testosterone result from mandatory military screening. This figure contrasts with the likely true prevalence of the condition, which is believed to be a much smaller percentage. The mandatory screening was announced by Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth in July and has raised concerns among medical experts regarding unnecessary medical evaluations for military personnel. These evaluations may lead to inappropriate testing, inaccurate results, and overtreatment, which could potentially cause harm, including infertility. Organizations such as the Endocrine Society and the American Urological Association (AUA) have advised against blanket screenings for these reasons. Despite these recommendations, the Pentagon has proceeded with the screening plans and released clinical guidance in September. The study emphasizes that testosterone levels should not be measured in men without symptoms and suggests that many Army members could be affected by these screenings.