Not just fitness, but hormones too: Pete Hegseth's new rule for troops over 30

The Secretary of War said the screening could result in troops being offered testosterone replacement therapy aimed at 'ensuring you have the right testosterone levels to operate at your absolute best.'

In Short

• The screening will be added to annual health testing for American troops
• Those with low testosterone will be offered hormone replacement therapy
• Troops will be given choice to accept or decline the therapy if offered

US Secretary of War Pete Hegseth on Wednesday announced mandatory annual testosterone screening for troops 30 years old or above, asserting that the initiative was aimed at combating the deficiency of the hormone and its subsequent impact on health.

"To master the profession of arms. We demand your all and you give it. But while we invest heavily in our weapons systems, platforms and gear, our most decisive tactical advantage will always be the individual war fighter," Hegseth said in a video message posted on his official X handle.

He added, "We have a sacred duty to maintain that advantage, which is why we must constantly look for new ways to optimise your performance, your resilience, and your long-term health."

The Secretary of War said the screening could result in troops being offered testosterone replacement therapy aimed at "ensuring you have the right testosterone levels to operate at your absolute best."

"Because it's well-established science that as we age, testosterone levels often naturally drop," he stated.

According to Hegseth, the screening would become part of annual testing for troops aged 30 and above, and they would be given the option to decide whether to accept any recommended hormone replacement treatment in case they are diagnosed with low testosterone levels.

Troops below the age of 30 could request to be tested.

BACKLASH OVER ANNOUNCEMENT

The move follows recent action by the US Department of Health and Human Services to relax certain restrictions on testosterone replacement therapy. Last month, it announced plans to seek the removal of limits on prescribing the treatment for men with age-related low testosterone.

Still, Hegseth's announcement triggered backlash from opposition Democrats, who pointed to his ban on transgender service members who often depended on hormone therapy.

"So now y'all support gender-affirming care?" Democratic Congresswoman Summer Lee said. "Sounds like gender-affirming care to me," Senator Tammy Duckworth added.

- Ends
(With inputs from Reuters)