US Defense Secretary Announces Annual Testosterone Testing for Soldiers Over 30

US Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth has introduced a new program requiring annual testosterone testing for soldiers aged 30 and above, while younger soldiers may opt in voluntarily. The initiative aims to help soldiers maintain their physical strength, resilience, and mental readiness, according to Hegseth, who emphasized that any hormone treatment would be voluntary and not intended to artificially enhance performance.

The Pentagon has not disclosed the scientific studies underpinning this decision nor clarified whether female soldiers will be eligible for hormone evaluations, including estrogen-based treatments. The announcement follows increased scrutiny of testosterone and similar substances in elite US military units after a 2022 incident involving a Navy SEAL candidate who died and was found to possess testosterone.

This move aligns with broader efforts within the Trump administration to expand access to testosterone therapies, including recent FDA proposals to ease prescription restrictions. However, current medical guidelines recommend hormone treatments only for patients with documented low testosterone levels and relevant symptoms, not for broad screening.

The policy has drawn criticism from Democratic lawmakers with military backgrounds, such as Senator Tammy Duckworth and Congresswoman Chrissy Houlahan, who advocate for hormone testing to be extended to all service members, including women, arguing for equal access if the military pursues such health initiatives.