NPR News: 07-16-2026 2PM EDT

Lakshmi Singh· Host0:01

Live from NPR News, I'm Lakshmi Singh. The military will begin screening service members over the age of 30 for low testosterone. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth announced the initiative this week on social media. NPR's Will Stone has the latest.

Will Stone0:17

Hegseth says service members will be screened and have the option to pursue testosterone replacement therapy if their levels are low. But guidelines from major medical groups do not recommend routine screening for testosterone unless a man has symptoms. Dr. Jamin Brahmbhatt, a urologist at Orlando Health, says research shows testosterone can help mental health, focus, bone health, and muscle mass.

Jamin Brahmbhatt· Soundbite0:39

There's lots of benefits. Whether I can extrapolate that into, like, people out there in the front lines, I really can't.

Will Stone0:47

Brahmbhatt says what's key is that you're restoring testosterone to a normal range, not boosting it to unnatural levels. Will Stone, NPR News.

Lakshmi Singh· Host0:55

President Trump is set to deliver a speech to the nation tonight, though it's uncertain what he plans to talk about. Trump suggested election security would be part of the message ahead of midterms. He may also talk about the US war with Iran. The White House had announced a new 60-day clock to use military action against Iran without congressional approval. Polls show low approval ratings on Trump's handling of the war and resulting energy crisis, as well as the economy. The annual inflation rate remains above the Fed's two percent target, though it cooled