Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth announced Wednesday that the U.S. military will begin mandatory annual testosterone testing for service members aged 30 and older, with hormone replacement therapy available for those who need it. The initiative marks a significant expansion of medical screening within the armed forces and aligns with the Trump administration’s broader push to promote testosterone replacement therapies across the nation.

Mandatory Testing Program Targets Combat Readiness

Under the new policy, all service members 30 years and older will undergo testosterone screening as part of their annual health assessments. Hegseth framed the program as essential to maintaining military effectiveness, posting a video on social media with the caption “The High-T Department of War.” Service members younger than 30 can voluntarily request testing. If medical professionals recommend treatment based on test results, individual troops will decide whether to pursue testosterone replacement therapy.

Hegseth emphasized the program aims to optimize natural capabilities rather than provide artificial enhancement. He described maintaining proper testosterone levels as part of the military’s commitment to keeping service members operating at peak performance. “This initiative is about restoring and optimizing your natural capabilities, protecting your longevity, and ensuring you have the biological foundation required to sustain the fight,” Hegseth stated in his announcement video.

Questions Remain About Female Personnel

The Defense Department declined to answer whether similar estrogen screenings would be implemented for female service members. Officials also refused to clarify potential consequences for troops who decline recommended testosterone treatment, referring reporters only to Hegseth’s video announcement. The lack of details about how the program applies to female personnel has raised questions about equal treatment within the military’s medical protocols.

Medical Context and Administration Policy

Male testosterone levels naturally decline beginning in the 30s or 40s. When levels drop below certain thresholds, men can experience reduced bone density and other health issues. Testosterone replacement therapy has carried warning labels since 2015 and remains restricted to men with both low testosterone and an associated medical condition. A 2023 study found the therapy did not increase risks of heart attacks or strokes, contradicting earlier research that suggested cardiovascular dangers.

The Trump administration has consistently promoted hormone replacement therapies. Health officials have touted benefits for both testosterone replacement in men and hormone therapy for women experiencing menopause. Last year, the FDA removed black box warnings on menopausal hormone therapies. The military’s testosterone screening program represents the administration’s most direct intervention in service member healthcare, potentially affecting hundreds of thousands of active-duty personnel across all military branches.