Pentagon reinstates mandatory testosterone screening for troops over 30

The Pentagon has reinstated mandatory testosterone-deficiency screening for male active-duty and reserve service members age 30 and older, after temporarily withdrawing earlier guidance for updates. The Defense Health Agency says the program is intended to standardize diagnosis and treatment and support troop health, performance and combat readiness, while service members under 30 may be screened at their request or when medically indicated. Screening begins with an assessment of symptoms and risk factors, followed by two fasting morning blood tests on separate days; treatment requires consistently low testosterone levels alongside compatible symptoms. The guidance states that testosterone therapy should not be prescribed solely to enhance battlefield performance, and declining evaluation or treatment will not carry adverse personnel consequences. Medical experts have nevertheless warned that inappropriate testosterone use could carry health risks, including infertility, and that symptoms may overlap with conditions such as sleep deprivation or psychological stress.