US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth announced mandatory annual testosterone screening for all military personnel aged 30 and above, citing concerns about declining testosterone levels and their impact on health and performance. The initiative aims to identify and address testosterone deficiency, potentially offering replacement therapy to optimize troop capabilities. While testing is mandatory for those 30+, younger troops can request screening voluntarily. This move aligns with recent efforts by the Department of Health and Human Services to loosen restrictions on testosterone replacement therapies for men experiencing age-related decline. However, the announcement has drawn criticism from Democratic lawmakers, who highlighted the contrast with Hegseth’s previous ban on transgender service members, who often rely on hormone therapy. Critics labelled the policy as “gender-affirming care,” drawing attention to perceived hypocrisy. The Pentagon maintains the screening focuses on addressing a common health issue affecting military readiness.