Urologist warns that Defense Dept's testosterone screening for servicemembers fuels outdated masculinity myths

Dr. Elizabeth Dray, a urologist, criticizes Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth's recent plan to screen all service members aged 30 and older for testosterone, describing it as a modern echo of ancient masculine ideals.

She argues that the belief higher testosterone makes men braver is a myth, noting that hormone levels do not determine courage or battlefield performance.

Dray contrasts the ancient Greek notion of masculinity-centered on courageous sacrifice-with today's fantasy of an optimized soldier, warning the policy could become a tragedy.

While acknowledging testosterone influences many bodily functions, she urges a more nuanced view of health that separates hormone metrics from notions of bravery.