politics
U.S. Defence Secretary announces annual testosterone screening for troops 30 and older
The screening program will test service members for testosterone deficiency during required medical checks. Officials said the initiative aims to maintain readiness and is voluntary for those receiving treatment.
Jul 15, 4:57 PM·1m read1 source
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U.S. Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth announced Wednesday a new annual screening program for testosterone deficiency among troops aged 30 and older. The screenings will be added to required medical checks. Service members under 30 may volunteer for testing.
Background on prior scrutiny The announcement follows years of attention on special operations forces, including Navy SEALs, after a 2022 recruit death revealed use of performance substances. The Navy later introduced testing for hormonal substances that promote muscle growth.
Policy details and context Hegseth said the program is not intended for artificial enhancement. Treatment under the policy remains voluntary. The Pentagon referred questions about targeted conditions to Hegseth's remarks on keeping troops strong and resilient.
The move occurs as other administration officials seek to ease access to testosterone therapies. Last month the FDA proposed relaxing prescription limits on gels, pills, patches and injections. Medical guidelines generally advise against routine testing and recommend confirming low levels on two separate morning blood tests before considering treatment.
