'To keep troops at their absolute best': US to begin annual testosterone screening for service members, says Pete Hegseth
US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has announced a new mandatory annual testosterone screening program for military personnel aged 30 and older. The initiative aims to maintain peak physical and mental readiness among troops, though officials emphasize that hormone replacement therapy remains voluntary.
Why it matters
The policy reflects a shift in military health priorities and has sparked discussions regarding the intersection of medical intervention and combat readiness.
NEW DELHI: US defence secretary Pete Hegseth on Wednesday announced a new annual testosterone screening programme for military personnel aged 30 and above, saying the initiative is aimed at ensuring troops can perform at their "absolute best."The screening will become part of the military's mandatory annual medical examinations for service members aged 30 and older. Personnel below 30 will be allowed to volunteer for testing.In a video shared on social media, Hegseth said testosterone replacement therapy would be voluntary. "The screenings are about making sure our troops are operating at their 'absolute best'," he said.Although Hegseth referred broadly to "troops," the announcement appeared to focus on male service members.
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