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Pentagon orders mandatory testosterone screenings for all service members

Published July 26, 2026 at 12:03 PM UTC

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Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth announced today that the U.S. military will begin mandatory testosterone level tests for all active-duty and reserve personnel. The policy, set to take effect in 90 days, aims to assess overall force readiness and identify potential hormonal imbalances that could affect physical performance, injury risk, and mental health. Hegseth framed the measure as part of a broader effort to modernize health standards and ensure troops meet rigorous combat demands. The screenings will be conducted during annual physical exams, with results stored in confidential medical records. Critics, however, question the scientific basis and raise concerns about privacy and potential misuse of data. The announcement has sparked debate among military leaders, health experts, and service members about whether such testing is necessary or an overreach. The Pentagon has not yet released details on how non-compliant personnel will be handled, but officials stressed that the goal is preventive health, not punishment.