US Military Mandates Annual Testosterone Tests for Troops

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The US Department of Defense (DoD) announced mandatory yearly testosterone tests for active-duty troops aged 30 years and older.
Soldiers under the age of 30 can choose to take this screening voluntarily.
The main goal of this initiative is to improve troop health and operational readiness.
Soldiers found with low hormone levels can receive Testosterone Replacement Therapy (TRT) after a detailed medical check.
Officials clarified that this programme focuses on medical readiness rather than boosting physical athletic performance.

Testosterone is the primary male sex hormone in the human body.
This hormone plays a vital role in muscle growth, bone density, fertility, red blood cell production, and mood regulation.
Doctors diagnose testosterone deficiency or male hypogonadism only when physical symptoms match low hormone levels in multiple blood tests.

TRT can boost energy, mood, muscle mass, bone density, and sexual function in diagnosed patients.
However, the therapy carries health risks such as high red blood cell counts, lower fertility, prostate problems, and worsening sleep apnea.
Medical experts worry that mandatory testing could lead to overdiagnosis and unnecessary hormone treatments.
Critics also point out potential political debates regarding how the military treats transgender personnel.
Current scientific evidence does not prove that hormone therapy improves long-term military performance.
While hormone treatment helps maintain muscle mass, it does not reliably build extra strength and can suppress natural hormone production.