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🇩🇰 Denmark /Conflict & Security

US defense secretary wants to test soldiers' testosterone levels

From Berlingske · () Danish

Translated from Danish, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

News Official statement New plan
  • The US military will begin testing soldiers aged 30 and over for testosterone levels as part of annual health check-ups.
  • The initiative aims to ensure soldiers maintain optimal testosterone levels for peak performance and health.
  • Soldiers found to have low testosterone can opt for treatment, which the defense secretary stressed is about restoring natural abilities, not enhancing performance.

The U.S. military is implementing a new policy requiring soldiers aged 30 and above to undergo testosterone level testing during their annual health examinations. This measure aims to ensure service members maintain optimal physiological conditions for their demanding roles.

It shall ensure that you have the right testosterone level to deliver your very best.

— Pete HegsethExplaining the purpose of the new testosterone testing policy for soldiers.

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth announced the change via a video message on social media platform X. He explained that the testing is designed to ensure soldiers have the "right testosterone level to deliver your very best." Hegseth cited well-documented scientific evidence indicating that testosterone levels naturally decline with age.

It is well-documented science that testosterone levels often fall naturally with age.

— Pete HegsethJustifying the need for testosterone testing among older soldiers.

For those identified with low testosterone levels, the decision to seek treatment rests solely with the individual. Hegseth clarified that the program is not intended for artificial performance enhancement. Instead, he stated, "It's about restoring and optimizing your natural abilities, protecting your health, and ensuring you have the biological foundation required in combat."

If treatment is recommended, it is solely your own choice whether you wish to receive testosterone treatment.

— Pete HegsethClarifying that treatment for low testosterone is voluntary.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by Berlingske in Danish. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.

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