From ABC News · ABC News · · 1m 50s
Pentagon orders testosterone screening for troops over 30
The military is now requiring annual testosterone tests for male service members, a major shift in health policy that some doctors say may be premature.
In brief
The military is now requiring annual testosterone tests for male service members, a major shift in health policy that some doctors say may be premature. The Pentagon is implementing mandatory testosterone screening for male troops over 30, but it's unclear what happens to those with low levels or whether the testing…
Pentagon orders testosterone screening
The Pentagon posted new guidance requiring mandatory testosterone deficiency screening for all male service members over age 30 in active duty or reserves.
Guidelines were briefly pulled
The screening guidance was temporarily rescinded two weeks ago from the Defense of Defense website. A Pentagon adviser called the documents a draft that had been inadvertently posted.
How the screening works
Service members over 30 get a structured symptom assessment and testosterone measured on two separate fasting mornings. Tests include hormone panels measuring luteinizing and follicle-stimulating hormones.
Pentagon cites force readiness
Pentagon spokesman Sean Parnell said the screening establishes uniform pathways across the military and strengthens troop performance by proactively identifying and treating suboptimal hormone levels.
“By proactively identifying and treating suboptimal hormone levels, the Department continues to invest in the health of its warfighters, strengthen their performance, and maximize force readiness.”
Low testosterone in special ops
Low testosterone has been a concern in the military, especially in special operations where high stress, extreme physical labor, and insufficient calories can negatively impact hormone levels.
Doctors worry about overdiagnosis
Some doctors are concerned that online popularity of low-T creates a false impression of a bigger problem. Up to a third of men on testosterone therapy don't actually meet diagnostic criteria.
Big questions remain unanswered
It's unclear what testosterone levels the Pentagon considers acceptable or whether troops with lower levels could face professional consequences. Female service member guidelines are still under review.
Testing has tripled recently
Testosterone testing and prescribing have tripled in recent years. Between 4 and 13.8 million men in the U.S. have testosterone deficiency, though research on the issue is still ongoing.
What matters most
The Pentagon is implementing mandatory testosterone screening for male troops over 30, but it's unclear what happens to those with low levels or whether the testing is medically justified.
