The Pentagon released clinical guidance for evaluating and treating testosterone deficiencies in male service members, implementing a directive announced by Secretary of War Pete Hegseth in July to screen troops for the condition.
Male service members aged 30 and older will undergo screening for testosterone deficiency as a standard part of their annual health assessments or upon entry to the military, according to the Defense Health Agency's new guideline. Younger service members can request screening or have it done if a medical provider identifies clinical indicators.
If a deficiency is identified, service members and their providers can discuss treatment options, including hormone replacement therapy. All treatment plans will be monitored and adjusted as needed by military medical professionals.
Hegseth framed the initiative as part of optimizing warfighter performance and resilience. "While we invest heavily in our weapon systems, platforms and gear, our most decisive tactical advantage will always be the individual warfighter," he said. "We must constantly look for new ways to optimize your performance, your resilience and your long-term health."
The secretary said the effort is "not about artificial enhancement; it's about restoring and optimizing your natural capabilities, protecting your longevity and ensuring you have the biological foundation required to sustain the fight."
Guidance for female service members' testosterone screening and treatment will be released in a separate document at a later date.