The U.S. Department of Defense will require yearly testosterone checks for all active-duty members aged 30 and above starting this year. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth announced the change on July 15, adding the test to standard annual health exams. Those with low levels can seek further evaluation and decide on replacement therapy, while younger personnel may request testing if desired.
Hegseth stated that balanced hormone levels help troops perform at peak capacity. The policy follows a recent decision by the Department of Health and Human Services to loosen limits on testosterone therapy for age-related declines.
Some Democratic lawmakers have raised concerns about consistency with rules on gender-affirming care for transgender service members. The Pentagon insists the program aims solely at improving overall force health and readiness.
Testosterone is the main male sex hormone, also present in smaller amounts in women. Produced chiefly in the testes, it supports puberty, muscle and bone development, red blood cell formation, fertility, sexual function and mood regulation. Levels peak in early adulthood then decline gradually, though individual variation is common.
Testosterone deficiency, or hypogonadism, occurs when the body produces insufficient amounts for normal function. Causes include testicular or pituitary disorders, genetic conditions, cancer therapies, obesity, diabetes, kidney disease, sleep apnea and certain drugs. Symptoms encompass low libido, erectile issues, infertility, tiredness, reduced muscle, higher body fat, weak bones, low mood and poor focus. Diagnosis requires both symptoms and repeated lab confirmation, not symptoms alone.
Guidelines from the Endocrine Society and American Urological Association recommend testing only when symptoms are present and confirmed on at least two morning blood samples. Routine screening of asymptomatic men is not advised in civilian medicine.
The Pentagon’s age-based approach therefore differs from standard practice. Officials have not clarified the choice of age 30, and evidence on whether such screening improves long-term outcomes or performance remains limited.
Testosterone replacement therapy is approved for medically confirmed hypogonadism and can be delivered via injections, gels, patches, pills or implants. It may enhance sexual function, muscle mass, bone strength, mood and energy but requires ongoing monitoring for side effects such as elevated red blood cells, reduced fertility and impacts on prostate health.
