Leading American medical organisations criticised Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth on Friday over his announcement of a testosterone therapy programme for troops, arguing the plan lacked clinical evidence and could expose service members to serious health risks. The rollout was unveiled at the Pentagon this week under the rebranded 'Department of War'.

Hegseth described the initiative as part of a broader push to boost physical performance and readiness among personnel. The Department of War said the programme would offer testosterone screening and treatment to eligible troops, though it released few details about clinical criteria or oversight.

The Endocrine Society, which publishes clinical guidelines on testosterone therapy, has long warned that hormone treatment is appropriate only for men with diagnosed hypogonadism confirmed by repeated laboratory testing. A spokesperson for the society said prescribing testosterone to raise performance in men with normal levels was not supported by evidence and could increase cardiovascular and fertility risks.

Veterans' health advocates and physicians raised concerns that the policy could pressure service members into unnecessary treatment. The American Urological Association and specialists in military medicine noted that the FDA requires labelling warning against use of testosterone for age-related or performance purposes. Critics also questioned the cost to the Defense Health Agency.

The controversy adds to scrutiny of Hegseth's leadership of the renamed department and its health priorities. Department of War officials did not immediately clarify how the programme would be monitored or which troops would qualify.

"Testosterone is a powerful hormone, not a fitness supplement," the Endocrine Society spokesperson said. "Using it outside diagnosed medical need puts patients at risk."