Washington, September 18 (Daily Kiran) : The Pentagon has issued new clinical guidelines mandating testosterone testing for U.S. military personnel aged 30 and older. This initiative aims to address testosterone deficiency and has established treatment limits while warning against using the hormone solely for performance enhancement.
On September 17, the Defense Health Agency released this guidance, which follows a directive from July that standardized screening and treatment processes for male service members, including both active-duty and reserve personnel. Those under 30 can also request screening.
This initiative is linked to the military’s goal of maintaining a ready and lethal fighting force. A Pentagon spokesperson stated, “The department is focused on creating and sustaining a prepared and dominant combat force ready to achieve peace through strength on the battlefield.”
The clinical document clarifies the distinction between treating confirmed deficiencies and using testosterone to improve performance in combat. It emphasizes that current evidence does not support guidance based on performance enhancement rather than treating an illness or deficiency.
Screening begins with a systematic evaluation of symptoms and risk factors. If positive or if risk factors are present, a blood test is conducted. However, the need for screening does not guarantee that all service members will receive hormone treatment.
Diagnosis requires consistently low testosterone levels along with associated symptoms. Merely having low lab readings or symptoms is insufficient for a diagnosis.
The guidelines recommend taking two blood samples on different days in the morning while fasting. Further testing may be necessary if total testosterone readings fall within the normal range but symptoms persist.
Symptoms may include decreased libido, low energy, difficulty concentrating, reduced muscle mass, and feelings of depression. The document warns that these symptoms can also be linked to lack of sleep, mental stress, inadequate calorie intake, and other common military conditions.
Military surveillance records indicate that between 2018 and 2025, less than 1% of male service members received an active clinical diagnosis each year.
The document notes that testosterone therapy has shown benefits in sexual function, body composition, and bone mineral density. However, it states that there is no evidence supporting its use to enhance energy, vitality, physical performance, or cognitive ability.
Accompanying patient information sheets clarify that pursuing treatment is optional. It states, “Employees will not face adverse consequences for not undergoing testing or treatment.”
Service members whose conditions are stable can generally be deployed without special waivers, provided the type of medication allows for it. Those receiving treatment must ensure adequate medication supply during deployment and for 90 days afterward, or maintain a record of a resupply plan. Different rules apply for specific types of duties.
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