Defense Department to Add Annual Testosterone Testing for Troops Age 30 and Older

U.S. military members age 30 and older will undergo annual blood testing for testosterone levels starting this year. The new requirement will be added to existing annual physical examinations. Defense officials stated the tests aim to identify health markers early. The policy allows troops younger than 30 to request testing on a voluntary basis.

Several medical organizations, including the American Urological Association and the Endocrine Society, recommend against routine testosterone screening in people without symptoms. The Endocrine Society states it recommends against routine screening of men in the general population for hypogonadism.

One urologist noted that age 30 is earlier than typical screening age for the general population because clinically significant testosterone deficiency remains relatively uncommon in otherwise healthy men at that age. Another specialist said the prevalence of low testosterone in this age group is meaningfully high while symptom awareness is low.

Testosterone replacement therapy carries documented risks including effects on fertility, red blood cell counts, prostate health, and potential cardiovascular issues. Research cited in the coverage indicates as few as 12 percent of men currently receiving the therapy met clinical standards for prescription.

Troops who test low will be able to choose whether to pursue treatment. Officials said the blood test itself is low-risk, inexpensive, and can be incorporated into routine physicals.