In brief
The US military will now mandate testosterone screening for all personnel aged 30 and older, offering replacement therapy for those diagnosed. The policy reflects a broader push by the Trump administration to simplify hormone prescriptions for men and signals Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth’s vision of a more "manly" military. Critics argue it may widen health disparities and sideline other fitness initiatives, while supporters claim it could improve combat readiness. The move also raises questions about whether women will receive similar hormone treatments and how it will impact gender equity on base.
Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth announced that every member of the armed forces aged 30 or older will be screened for low testosterone as part of their yearly medical check‑ups. If a deficiency is found, soldiers can choose to receive up‑to‑date replacement therapy.
Those under 30 will have the option to opt into the testing, but the Pentagon has not yet clarified whether women will be offered similar hormone treatments. The policy follows a broader effort by the Trump administration to simplify prescriptions for testosterone in men.
BBC journalist Gary O'Donoghue argues that Hegseth’s plan signals a desire to cultivate a more "manly" image within the military, raising questions about how such measures will affect operational readiness and gender equality on base.
Critics warn that focusing on testosterone could overlook other health factors and divert resources from team‑level fitness initiatives, while proponents contend that hormone replacement may prevent low‑energy symptoms and boost combat effectiveness.
