US military starts testosterone screening for troops 30 and older
What's new: Service members with low levels can get voluntary hormone therapy as the policy takes effect immediately.
The Pentagon is starting annual testosterone screening for active-duty and reserve service members age 30 and older, with younger troops allowed to request testing. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth said those found to have low levels will be offered voluntary testosterone replacement therapy.
The policy took effect immediately, according to Pentagon spokesperson Sean Parnell. Hegseth cast the move as a readiness measure aimed at keeping troops fit for service and healthy after they leave the military.
The rollout comes as Trump administration officials, including Robert F. Kennedy Jr., push broader access to testosterone treatment. Experts cited by the BBC said the therapy can improve muscle mass and mood in some men, but warned it can cause infertility and may carry cardiovascular risks.