The U.S. Department of Defense has released detailed instructions regarding a new mandatory policy for screening testosterone deficiency in active-duty and reserve service members aged 30 and above. This policy comes as a continuation of a previous announcement made by U.S. Secretary of War Pete Hegseth in July. The guidelines, now in effect, establish standardized procedures for screening and treating hormonal and energy-related issues to enhance military readiness.
Hegseth, a proponent of testosterone use, introduced this mandate, sparking discussions among experts regarding its scientific basis. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration is planning an expert meeting in mid-September to discuss the medical use of testosterone.
Under the new guidance, men aged 30 and older will undergo compulsory testosterone blood tests, while younger men will be tested upon request or if symptoms are observed by healthcare providers. For women, routine testosterone testing is not mandated, but screening for fatigue and menstrual irregularities associated with hormonal imbalances is recommended.
The directive also outlines criteria for prescribing off-label testosterone in women, particularly for postmenopausal women experiencing low sexual desire. Some medical professionals have expressed concerns that widespread testosterone testing could lead to unnecessary or potentially harmful treatments, as the benefits of universal screening for low testosterone in military personnel on combat readiness remain uncertain.
