Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth on Wednesday announced a new program that would introduce regular testosterone testing and the option for testosterone replacement therapies for service members (or “warfighters” as he repeatedly called them).
“At the Department of War, we have the most elite warriors on the face of the earth. Every single day, you are pushed to your absolute physical and mental limit to master the profession of arms. We demand your all, and you give it,” Hegseth said in the video shared on social media with the caption “High T Department of War.”
“But while we invest heavily in our weapons systems platforms and gear, our most decisive tactical advantage will always be the individual warfighter. We have a sacred duty to maintain that advantage, which is why we must constantly look for new ways to optimize your performance, your resilience and your long-term health,” Hegseth continued. “And to meet that commitment today, I’m authorizing a new screening program for testosterone deficiency for our service members, ensuring you have the right testosterone levels to operate at your absolutely best.”
Citing “well-established science” around aging and testosterone levels, Hegseth said that service members “age 30 and older are going to be tested annually as part of their periodic health assessments.”
