What is the scope and voluntary nature of Defense Secretary Hegseth's new testosterone screening policy for U.S. troops?

The policy mandates annual testosterone deficiency screening for service members aged 30 and older as part of required medical exams; those under 30 may volunteer for testing. Hegseth emphasized in a social media video that testosterone replacement therapy would be voluntary, and clarified the initiative is 'not about artificial enhancement.' The Pentagon did not specify whether female troops would receive equivalent evaluation for estrogen-related therapies during perimenopause.

How does Hegseth's policy relate to broader Trump administration efforts around testosterone access and what scientific or regulatory context surrounds it?

Hegseth's announcement aligns with other Trump administration officials — including Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. — advocating easier access to testosterone replacement therapy, amid the FDA's recent proposal to ease prescribing limits on testosterone gels, pills, patches, and injections. While the current FDA label restricts these drugs to men with hypogonadism, influencers tied to the 'Make America Healthy Again' movement promote off-label uses for anti-aging, muscle building, and mental sharpness — claims not endorsed by most medical experts. The FDA also recently removed a boxed warning about heart attack and stroke risks from testosterone drugs, following new safety data.

Hegseth Announces New Policy to Screen Troops for Low Testosterone

Jul 16, 2026

Defense Secretary Hegseth announced mandatory annual testosterone screenings for male troops over 30 to ensure operational readiness. The move coincides with broader Trump administration efforts to ease FDA prescribing limits on testosterone replacement therapies amid ongoing debates over medical efficacy and safety.

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Hegseth Announces New Policy to Screen Troops for Low Testosterone

Hegseth Announces New Policy to Screen Troops for Low Testosterone

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