Pete Hegseth announces mandatory testosterone screenings for US military personnel

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has announced a new policy requiring all active duty and reserve personnel aged 30 and older to undergo mandatory testosterone deficiency screenings as part of their periodic health assessments. The program, which Hegseth described as ensuring service members have the “biological foundation required to sustain the fight,” will offer voluntary testosterone replacement therapy to those identified as deficient.

Separately, Hegseth faced social media scrutiny following a viral video from an August 10 ceremony at Joint Base Charleston in South Carolina. The footage showed the Secretary sweating heavily and wiping his nose, leading to unsubstantiated online speculation regarding stimulant use. Hegseth addressed his perspiration during the event, attributing it to the South Carolina heat.