Pentagon Launches Annual Testosterone Screening for Service Members

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth announced a Department of Defense program that will add an annual testosterone-deficiency test to the existing Periodic Health Assessment for all service members aged 30 and older. Personnel under 30 may request the screening voluntarily. The move is presented as a health-maintenance measure intended to keep troops “on the leading edge of lethality.”

Daily Wire

The screening targets a condition that affects roughly 5.6 percent of men between ages 30 and 79, which can lead to muscle loss, fatigue, weight gain, sexual dysfunction, and is linked to diabetes, cardiovascular disease, osteoporosis, and depression. If a deficiency is identified, service members may elect to receive testosterone replacement therapy (TRT); participation in treatment is entirely optional. Hegseth framed the effort as a way to address “medically identified deficiencies rather than enhance performance,” emphasizing long-term health for active duty members and veterans alike.

The Hill

The secretary characterized the initiative as a continuation of the Pentagon’s duty to provide the “absolute best medical care” to its warfighters. He argued that, while the military invests heavily in weapons and equipment, the decisive advantage remains the individual soldier’s physical and mental readiness. By detecting hormonal declines early, the department aims to preserve operational readiness and support service members’ post-service health.

Daily Wire

• “While we invest heavily in our weapon systems, platforms and gear, our most decisive tactical advantage will always be the individual warfighter,” — Pete Hegseth, Defense Secretary

The Hill

• “We have a sacred duty to maintain that advantage, which is why we must constantly look for new ways to optimize your performance, your resilience and your long-term health.” — Pete Hegseth

The Hill

• “We owe our warriors the absolute best medical care in the world. And this program delivers on that obligation.” — Pete Hegseth

The Hill

• “This initiative it’s not about artificial enhancement; it’s about restoring and optimizing your natural capabilities, protecting your longevity, ensuring you have the biological foundation required to sustain and fight,” — Pete Hegseth

The Hill