Pentagon mandates testosterone screening for troops 30+, experts raise concerns

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 puzzlement and concern, warning that the mandate could lead to unnecessary or harmful treatment, including infertility and cardiovascular risks. The American Urological Association and Endocrine Society recommend testosterone supplementation only for symptomatic patients. Critics note that age 30 is not an appropriate screening threshold and that evidence for performance benefits is not concrete. The policy is one of several controversial healthcare changes by the Trump administration, including reversal of the flu vaccine mandate and alterations to vaccine advisory panels. The Pentagon declined further comment.