Pentagon plans universal testosterone screening for troops 30+, doctors 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, claiming it will maintain military readiness. However, most medical experts contacted by Reuters expressed concern that the mandate lacks solid scientific evidence and 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 with confirmed deficiency. Critics note that widespread screening without preliminary data is premature, and that testosterone therapy can shrink testes and impair fertility, which is particularly concerning for younger service members. The policy is part of a series of controversial healthcare changes by the Trump administration, including reversing the flu vaccine mandate.