US troops to receive testosterone screenings, hormone therapy, says Hegseth

US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth announced mandatory annual testosterone screenings for troops aged 30 and above, aiming to combat testosterone deficiency. Hegseth stated that the initiative is designed to restore and protect service members' "natural capabilities" and longevity, promoting both physical and mental readiness. Troops with low testosterone will be offered replacement therapy, which Hegseth emphasized would be "entirely your choice" and not for "artificial enhancement." This initiative follows a global decline in average male testosterone levels and comes as the US Department of Health and Human Services eases some restrictions on testosterone replacement therapies. However, the announcement drew criticism from Democrats, who highlighted Hegseth's previous ban on transgender service members who often rely on hormone therapy.