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US troops to undergo mandatory testosterone screenings

From Jerusalem Post · () English

Translated from English, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

News Named sources New plan
  • US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth announced mandatory annual testosterone screenings for troops aged 30 and above.
  • The initiative aims to combat declining testosterone levels, which can impact health and readiness.
  • Service members with low levels will be offered hormone replacement therapy, which is voluntary.

U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has mandated annual testosterone screenings for all service members aged 30 and older, a move aimed at addressing declining hormone levels that can affect troop health and combat effectiveness. The screenings will be integrated into routine annual health assessments.

It's well-established science that as we age, testosterone levels naturally drop.

— Pete HegsethExplaining the rationale behind the new screening policy.

Hegseth stated in a video message that the science behind age-related testosterone decline is well-established. For those whose levels fall below a set benchmark, testosterone replacement therapy will be offered. He emphasized that participation in the therapy is entirely voluntary and stressed that the initiative is focused on restoring and protecting service members' natural capabilities, not on artificial enhancement.

It is entirely your choice.

— Pete HegsethRegarding the voluntary nature of testosterone replacement therapy.

The Defense Department also indicated that addressing these hormonal markers could enhance both the physical stamina and the psychological readiness of service members. Hegseth asserted that by managing these health factors, the military is ensuring its personnel remain at peak performance. When questioned by NBC News, the Pentagon declined to comment on whether similar screenings would be implemented for female service members or the consequences for those who refuse the recommended treatment, directing inquiries back to Hegseth's video statement.

this initiative is not about artificial enhancement.

— Pete HegsethClarifying the purpose of the program.

This initiative comes amid a broader trend of declining testosterone levels globally, with a recent study indicating a significant drop over the past five decades. Low testosterone can lead to various health issues, including fatigue, reduced libido, loss of muscle mass, and mood disorders. The U.S. Health Department has also recently eased some restrictions on testosterone replacement therapies.

By addressing these health markers early, we are keeping you on the leading edge of lethality and giving the same level of support that you give this nation.

— Pete HegsethHighlighting the benefits for service members' readiness and capabilities.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by Jerusalem Post in English. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.

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