Show Caption
WASHINGTON – Pentagon chief Pete Hegseth said the U.S. military will begin testing the testosterone levels of troops 30 and older, telling service members the new screening measure is another way to "optimize your performance" on the battlefield.Hegseth, who as a Cabinet secretary has embraced masculinity and what he calls "warrior ethos," said he's authorized a new screening program for testosterone deficiency."It's well-established since that, as we age, testosterone levels naturally drop," Hegseth said in a short video announcing the plan. "Under the supervision of our world-class medical professionals, war fighters age 30 and older are going to be tested annually as part of their periodic health assessments."U.S. troops younger than 30 can choose to have their testosterone checked during their annual assessments, the secretary added.Hegseth said it will be the choice of service members whether they receive "testosterone replacement therapy," without specifying whether the Pentagon will pay for such medical care.Hegseth did not reference female troops in his video.Testosterone is a hormone produced primarily in the testicles that helps maintain men’s bone density, fat distribution, muscle strength and mass, facial and body hair, red blood cell production and sperm production. Testosterone levels generally peak during adolescence and young adulthood, and begin declining by approximately 1% per year after age 30 or 40. Women and other people also produce testosterone and can suffer from overly high or low levels.A blood test is used to diagnose a low testosterone level, and a doctor may recommend testosterone replacement therapy in the form of injections, pill, patches or gels, for men with conditions like hypogonadism. Women and other individuals may also be prescribed medication to address testosterone levels."This initiative, it's not about artificial enhancement. It's about restoring and optimizing your natural abilities, protecting your longevity and ensuring you have the biological foundation required to sustain the fight," Hegseth said.Reach Joey Garrison on X @joeygarrison.
