US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has prompted a wider public conversation about testosterone levels after ordering the Pentagon to introduce mandatory testosterone-deficiency screening for military personnel. The move, announced on 15 July, has drawn attention to low testosterone as a health issue affecting men more broadly, with doctors weighing in on symptoms and treatment options. It matters because low testosterone often goes unrecognised, and increased awareness could prompt more men to seek diagnosis and appropriate care.

Under the new policy, active-duty and reserve personnel aged 30 and over will receive testosterone screening as part of their routine periodic health assessments, while younger service members can request testing if they wish. Doctors cited in the article note that testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) may be appropriate when clinically indicated, and highlight various warning signs men should watch for that could signal low testosterone levels.