Hegseth says War Department will start screening testosterone of soldiers over 30

War Secretary Pete Hegseth announced Wednesday that the United States military will begin testing the testosterone levels of service members who are 30 years and older as part of its efforts to refocus on the soldier's fitness and “lethality.”

Hegseth said in a social media video that the screenings, which look for testosterone deficiency, will be added to a fighter's annual health assessment and that those under 30 can choose to be tested but are not required to.

“While we invest heavily in our weapons systems, platforms and gear, our most decisive tactical advantage will always be the individual warfighter,” he said in the video. “We have a sacred duty to maintain that advantage, which is why we must constantly look for new ways to optimize your performance, your resilience and your long-term health.”

The secretary said warfighters who do have a deficiency can undergo hormone therapy, but will not be forced to do so.

“It’s not about artificial enhancement,” he said. “It’s about restoring and optimizing your natural capabilities, protecting your longevity and ensuring you have the biological foundation required to sustain the fight.”

Hegseth did not state whether female soldiers would also be tested, and it comes after the secretary rolled out a new set of standards for combat roles across the military last year that forces women to meet the same standards as men.

Misty Severi is a news reporter for Just The News. You can follow her on X for more coverage.