Pentagon orders testosterone screening for troops 30+, experts question evidence

Published Jul 19, 02:00 PM UTC

U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth 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 the mandate lacks solid evidence and could lead to unnecessary or harmful treatment, including infertility and cardiovascular risks. The American Urological Association and Endocrine Society recommend testosterone therapy only for symptomatic patients. Critics note that age 30 is not an appropriate screening threshold and that widespread implementation without preliminary data is premature. The policy is part of broader controversial healthcare changes by the Trump administration, including reversing the flu vaccine mandate and altering vaccine advisory panels.