Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth announced a new policy to screen service members aged 30 and older for testosterone deficiency during annual health assessments.
Key facts
- •The new screening policy applies to all U.S. military service members aged 30 and older during their periodic health assessments.
- •Medical experts warn that fertility loss is a significant risk of testosterone replacement therapy, particularly for younger service members.
- •A diagnosis of testosterone deficiency requires more than a single blood test, as levels are influenced by daily lifestyle factors and physical stress.
- •The FDA recommended removing a cardiovascular warning from TRT labels in 2025 following the results of the TRAVERSE trial.
- •Experts suggest that mandatory fertility counseling should be provided to service members before initiating testosterone replacement therapy.
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has announced that the U.S. military will begin annual screening for testosterone deficiency for all service members aged 30 and older. The initiative, which Hegseth described as a way to optimize health and combat readiness, will be integrated into existing periodic health assessments. While the program aims to support the physical and psychological well-being of troops, medical experts have raised concerns regarding the clinical necessity and potential risks of mass screening.
Medical Concerns Regarding Routine Screening
Several medical experts have questioned the clinical justification for routine, population-wide testosterone testing. Urologists noted that a single blood test is insufficient for a diagnosis, as testosterone levels fluctuate based on factors like sleep, diet, stress, and physical activity. Experts emphasized that a formal diagnosis typically requires two low-level readings combined with clinical symptoms. There is concern that testing service members during periods of intense training or deployment could lead to misleading results and unnecessary medical interventions.
Risks and Considerations of Replacement Therapy
For service members diagnosed with a deficiency, testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) is an option, though it carries significant medical considerations. A primary concern cited by specialists is the impact on fertility, as exogenous testosterone can suppress sperm production. While fertility may recover after treatment stops, experts noted that this process is not always predictable. Other potential risks associated with TRT include acne, sleep apnea, and the potential for existing prostate cancer to progress more rapidly.
Program Goals and Implementation
Secretary Hegseth stated that the program is intended to protect long-term health and maintain the biological foundation of the force, rather than to use testosterone as a performance-enhancing drug or to push levels above the natural range. While screening will be mandatory for those 30 and older, it will remain optional for younger service members. Experts stressed that the success of the program will depend on the specific protocols used to distinguish between temporary hormonal fluctuations and genuine medical conditions.
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This article was independently rewritten by ManyPress editorial AI from reporting originally published by Healthline.
