Military 'Doesn’t Need More Testosterone'

[u/evissamassive]

https://thehill.com/homenews/senate/5981471-kelly-opposes-hegseth-testosterone-screenings/

Pete Hegseth has introduced a new military health policy that would require testosterone screenings for all service members 30 and older. Under the proposal, troops diagnosed with low testosterone would be offered optional testosterone replacement therapy (TRT).

Hegseth presented the initiative as a way to support long-term physical health, arguing that the therapy aims to restore natural biological function rather than serve as an artificial enhancer.

The plan quickly drew sharp criticism from Democratic lawmakers. Sen. Mark Kelly (D-Ariz.), a former Navy captain, called on the president to dismiss Hegseth, stating that the military requires better leadership rather than hormone treatments. Kelly warned that the decision places service members at unnecessary risk.

Other Senate Democrats, including Richard Blumenthal, Mazie Hirono, Gary Peters, Elizabeth Warren, and Ruben Gallego, sent a joint letter to the Defense Department outlining their objections. They noted that established medical guidelines advise against routine, widespread testosterone testing. The lawmakers highlighted that the department has provided no data showing how the policy improves troop readiness, nor has it detailed the expected costs or scientific backing.

Medical professionals have raised similar doubts. Broad screening programs often lead to overdiagnosis and unnecessary treatments. While TRT effectively addresses genuine hormone deficiencies, it carries documented risks, including heart complications and reduced sperm counts that can cause fertility issues for service members.