Pentagon advances testosterone testing for male troops

Testosterone levels decline with age and can affect sexual function, mood, bone density, and overall health. However, major medical organizations generally recommend testing men with symptoms suggestive of hypogonadism rather than population-wide screening, making the Pentagon's initiative an unusually broad hormone-screening program.

The Department of Defense has released new clinical guidance directing routine testosterone-deficiency screening for male active-duty and reserve service members aged 30 years and older. The screening will be incorporated into annual health assessments and military entry examinations, while men younger than 30 years may request screening or undergo evaluation when clinical indicators are present.

According to the guidance, initial screening will consist of a structured assessment of symptoms and risk factors. Laboratory testing will be reserved for individuals whose screening raises concern for testosterone deficiency. The Pentagon says the goal is to improve long-term health, resilience, performance, and readiness across the force.

The policy clarifies that the current initiative applies only to men. Pentagon officials said companion guidance addressing hormone-related screening and treatment for female service members will be released separately. Defense leaders have emphasized that the effort is intended to identify and treat clinically significant hormone deficiency rather than provide hormone therapy solely for performance enhancement.

The move has drawn scrutiny from some medical experts, who note that symptoms associated with low testosterone can overlap with common military-related stressors, including sleep deprivation, psychological stress, caloric deficits, and traumatic brain injury. Professional societies generally do not recommend routine screening of asymptomatic adults.

"This initiative is not about artificial enhancement; it's about restoring and optimizing your natural capabilities, protecting your longevity and ensuring you have the biological foundation required to sustain the fight, " said Pete Hegseth, Secretary of Defense.

Sources:

Toropin K, Perrone M. (2026 Sep 18). Associated Press. The Pentagon is moving forward with mandatory testosterone testing for most male troops

Lopez CT. (2026 Sep 17). U.S. Department of Defense. Department Releases Guidance on Implementing Testosterone Deficiency Screenings for Male Service Members

Parnell S. (2026 Sep 17). U.S. Department of Defense. Statement by Chief Pentagon Spokesman, Sean Parnell, on the Clinical Guidance for Testosterone Deficiency in the Male Service Member