Pentagon rolls out guidelines to test service members for testosterone
September 2, 2026 / 7:40 PM EDT / CBS News
TL;DR
- Pentagon mandates testosterone screenings for male service members aged 30 and older.
- Optional screenings will be offered to male service members under 30.
- Female service members will be assessed for hormonal dysregulation symptoms.
- The goal is to enhance warfighter health, performance, and force readiness.
- Low testosterone can affect physical strength, bone density, fitness, mood, and cardiovascular health.
- High operational tempo, stress, blast exposure, TBIs, and sleep disruption may decrease testosterone levels.
- Hypogonadal service members may receive follow-up screenings and treatment, including testosterone replacement therapy.