US Army’s New Testosterone Therapy Directive: What It Means, Benefits, Risks, and Expert Advice

US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth recently announced on X (formerly Twitter) that, under a new initiative, all male US service members will undergo annual screening for testosterone deficiency. The goal of the program is to ensure troops maintain healthy testosterone levels to support their physical performance and readiness.

However, while the move has sparked interest, medical experts say testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) should only be used when clinically necessary, as unnecessary treatment may carry health risks.

How Testosterone Changes With Age

According to Dr. David Chandy, testosterone levels naturally peak during the late teenage years and twenties. After the age of 30, they gradually decline by about 1–2% every year.

By their forties and fifties, some men may develop late-onset hypogonadism, a condition caused by low testosterone levels.

Symptoms may include:

• Fatigue
• Reduced sex drive
• Mood changes
• Loss of muscle mass

Dr. Chandy explained that these symptoms can also occur due to other medical conditions, making proper blood tests essential before diagnosing low testosterone.

Why Testosterone Is Important

Dr. Chandy said testosterone plays several important roles in the body. It helps maintain:

• Sexual health and libido
• Muscle strength
• Bone density
• Energy levels
• Mental well-being

For men who have medically confirmed testosterone deficiency, testosterone replacement therapy can significantly improve energy, sexual function, and overall quality of life.

According to a May 2026 study published in JAMA Network, around one in ten men in the United States has clinically diagnosable low testosterone.

Risks of Testosterone Replacement Therapy

Despite its benefits, Dr. David Chandy emphasized that testosterone therapy is not suitable for everyone and may have side effects, including:

• Increased red blood cell production
• Worsening of sleep apnea
• Reduced fertility due to lower sperm production
• Potential prostate-related complications

Because of these risks, TRT should only be started after proper medical evaluation.

Do Women Have Testosterone?

Yes. According to Dr. David Chandy, women also produce testosterone through the ovaries and adrenal glands.

In women, testosterone helps support:

• Sex drive
• Muscle strength
• Bone health
• Energy levels

Testosterone levels in women naturally decline with age, particularly after menopause.

Expert Advice

Dr. David Chandy advised people not to self-diagnose low testosterone based on symptoms or advertisements.

He stressed that anyone who suspects they have low testosterone should consult a qualified endocrinologist and undergo appropriate hormone testing before considering treatment.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional regarding any medical condition or treatment. The report also references announcements and publicly available information that have not been independently verified by Tezzbuzz.com.