The U.S. Department of Defense released detailed instructions on Wednesday regarding a new mandatory screening policy for testosterone deficiency among active-duty and reserve service members aged 30 and above. This initiative follows an announcement made in July by U.S. Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth.
Effective immediately, the guidance establishes standardized screening and treatment protocols for both male and female service members. The Pentagon aims to enhance military readiness by identifying and addressing hormonal and energy-related issues.
While Hegseth, an advocate for testosterone usage, introduced the mandate last month, concerns have been raised by experts regarding the scientific rationale behind such a policy. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration is set to convene a meeting of experts in mid-September to discuss the medical use of testosterone.
Under the new guidelines, men aged 30 and above will undergo compulsory testosterone blood tests, with younger men being tested only upon request or if warning signs are noted by clinicians. For women, routine testosterone blood tests are not mandated, but screening for fatigue and menstrual irregularities linked to hormonal imbalances is recommended.
The guidance also outlines circumstances in which off-label testosterone may be prescribed to women, particularly postmenopausal women experiencing abnormally low libido. Some medical professionals have expressed concerns that widespread testosterone testing could result in unnecessary or potentially harmful treatments. They argue that there is limited evidence to support the notion that universal screening for low testosterone would enhance U.S. combat readiness.