The U.S. Pentagon announced on Wednesday that it will begin mandatory testosterone-deficiency screening among active-duty and reserve service personnel aged 30 and above.

The assessments will take effect immediately, as men aged 30 and above will undergo blood testing for testosterone deficiency during their regular health assessments.

The Defence Health Agency also released guidelines for the tests, which will apply during screenings.

The agency added that service members diagnosed with testosterone deficiency will receive treatment and follow-up tests, including therapeutic measures if needed.

Service members under 30 can also request the tests, or doctors can order them if they identify warning signs that warrant an assessment.

Female service members would be assessed for any symptoms of hormonal dysregulation, which can link to disrupted menstrual cycles.

The measure would help the military determine whether service members need further treatment.

The development follows defence secretary Pete Hegseth’s July announcement that the U.S. will begin the programme to help troops perform at their best and thrive after their years of service.

Medical experts have also raised the alarm about the broad testosterone testing, saying it lacks significant evidence of improving combat readiness among service members.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration said it will hold a meeting later this month with experts to discuss the medical use of testosterone.