The Pentagon is moving forward with a mandatory program to screen U.S. service members for testosterone deficiency, after pausing earlier guidance and then rescinding it temporarily for updates. A spokesperson says the reinstated guidance takes effect immediately and establishes uniform screening and treatment pathways for eligible personnel.
U.S. Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth had promoted the testing approach, first announcing the screening mandate in July. In the reissued guidance, the Pentagon addresses male testosterone deficiency; it also had planned for women to be screened via a questionnaire, with potential follow-on assessment and treatment for issues related to hormonal imbalances. In early September, the Pentagon briefly rescinded the published medical guidance “to allow for updates,” but details of what changed were not immediately clear.
Across the reporting, the central dispute is medical. Several medical experts and professionals cited by outlets question the need for routine or mandatory screening and warn that inappropriate testosterone prescriptions could pose health risks, including potential effects on fertility.
