Trump's secretary of defense has announced annual testosterone checks for all troops.

A US military official has announced plans to conduct summer testosterone level screenings for service members, marking a new initiative aimed at improving health care and readiness among troops. The announcement was made by Donald Trump’s former defense secretary, Pete Hegseth, who shared the decision via a video posted on social media platform X. According to the posting, medical professionals will assess hormone levels and provide hormone replacement therapy to those found to have low testosterone. These screenings will become part of routine health check-ups for individuals over the age of 30, while younger personnel may opt for voluntary testing. The decision comes amid growing awareness of the impact of hormonal imbalances on both physical and mental performance. Hegseth emphasized that the program aims to ensure service members receive the best possible healthcare and maintain optimal physical and psychological preparedness for future missions as well as life after their military careers. He noted that modern warfare demands the highest level of bodily and psychological readiness, and early detection of health issues could enhance operational effectiveness within the armed forces. According to data from the American Urological Association, the prevalence of testosterone deficiency among men varies significantly depending on the criteria used, ranging from two to 50 percent based on different measurement standards. A study cited by former FDA commissioner Marty Makary during a recent conference suggests that approximately 5.6 percent of men aged 30 to 79 years exhibit low testosterone levels alongside symptoms such as depression and reduced physical strength. This highlights the potential widespread nature of the issue within the military population. Dr. Theodore Crisostomo-Wynne, a military urologist, raised concerns at this year's FDA meeting regarding the particularly pronounced occurrence of testosterone deficiency among members of specialized units. He pointed out that researchers have observed the emergence of what is known as the “operational syndrome,” which is linked to chronic stress, exposure to explosions, brain injuries, and sleep disturbances. The consequences include hormonal imbalances and changes in mood and cognitive abilities, all of which can affect combat readiness and overall well-being. The proposed screening program reflects broader efforts to address health-related challenges faced by military personnel. As more research emerges linking hormonal imbalances with decreased performance and increased vulnerability to mental health disorders, the military is increasingly looking toward proactive measures to support its ranks. The initiative underscores the importance of integrating advanced medical practices into standard operations to better serve both current and future service members.