Washington.- Secretary of War, Pete Hegseth, announced this Wednesday that he has authorized testing for testosterone deficiency in military personnel over 30 years of age to ensure that soldiers have “adequate” levels of the male hormone for better performance.
This addition to the mandatory health screening for all U.S. personnel is part of Hegseth’s crusade to restore the “highest masculine standard” in an Army with new physical requirements to avoid “fat” and “bearded” soldiers.
In a video posted on X, the secretary indicated that while they invest “considerably” in weapons systems and equipment, the “most decisive tactical advantage will always be the individual combatant.”
“We have a sacred duty to maintain that advantage. Therefore, to fulfill that commitment today, I am authorizing a new testosterone deficiency screening program for our military personnel, ensuring they have the proper levels of this hormone to perform at the peak of their capabilities,” he announced.
Annual tests
Hegseth recalled that it is “scientifically proven that, with age, testosterone levels tend to decrease naturally” and explained that “military personnel aged 30 and older will undergo annual testing as part of their periodic medical evaluation,” while the rest can voluntarily choose to take the exam.
“If treatment is recommended, testosterone replacement therapy is entirely optional. This initiative does not seek to artificially enhance performance, but rather to restore and optimize their natural capabilities, protect their longevity, and ensure they have the biological foundation necessary for combat,” he clarified.
Testosterone
Testosterone is the primary male sex hormone and its insufficient presence in the body could cause fatigue, loss of sex drive, muscle mass and bone density, as well as mood swings, lack of concentration, and a tendency toward depression and anxiety.
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Since his arrival at the former Department of Defense, the former Fox News contributor has brought back the name Department of War, demanded “masculine standards” for the Armed Forces, criticized the presence of women in their ranks, and revoked access to the Pentagon for most correspondents.
According to Department of Labor data, only between 10-15% of the more than one million people classified as military personnel work in combat roles, with a vast majority operating in logistical support, administrative, healthcare, construction, or repair jobs.
