Pentagon mandates annual testosterone screening for troops aged 30+, experts question evidence

Published Jul 19, 02:00 PM UTC

The Pentagon, under Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, has ordered annual testosterone-deficiency screening for active-duty and reserve service members aged 30 and older, citing military readiness. However, five of six men’s health experts contacted by Reuters expressed concern, warning that the mandate lacks solid scientific evidence and could lead to unnecessary or harmful treatment, including infertility and cardiovascular risks. Medical guidelines recommend testosterone therapy only for symptomatic patients, not blanket screening. Critics note that age 30 is not an appropriate screening threshold and that most studies focus on older men. The policy is part of a series of controversial healthcare changes by the Trump administration, including reversing the flu vaccine mandate and altering vaccine advisory panels. The Pentagon declined further comment.