Overview
- The Pentagon announced the policy on Wednesday that it will begin measuring testosterone during annual medical exams for service members aged 30 and older and will allow younger personnel to volunteer for testing.
- Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth said the goal is to identify deficits and offer voluntary hormone-replacement therapy to restore what he called natural capacity and support combat readiness.
- The Pentagon has confirmed testing and voluntary treatment but has not published operational rules, clinical protocols, eligibility criteria or guidance on how the measures will apply to female service members.
- Medical experts note testosterone normally declines from about age 30 and that replacement therapy can raise muscle mass and energy but carries risks and clinical controversies that require clear screening and monitoring plans.
- Coverage links the initiative to Hegseth’s recent push for male-norm physical standards and has prompted questions about equity, medical ethics, troop morale, and whether this focus matches wider strategic priorities.