Pentagon Testosterone Screenings Earn Men’s Health Experts’ Praise

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth announced last week that annual testosterone deficiency screenings will become a standard part of Periodic Health Assessments for active-duty and reserve service members aged 30 and older. Troops under 30 may request voluntary testing, and those diagnosed with low testosterone can decide whether to pursue testosterone replacement therapy.

Shalin Shah, chief executive of Marius Pharmaceuticals Inc., called the policy a landmark moment for men’s health. His company, based in Raleigh, North Carolina, markets Kyzatrex, an FDA-approved oral treatment for testosterone deficiency. Shah said the screenings underscore the importance of hormone health, especially for military personnel who face chronic stress, sleep disruption, chemical exposures and traumatic brain injuries.

An estimated 20 million American men between 25 and 75 have low testosterone, yet many remain undiagnosed. Untreated hypogonadism raises risks for metabolic disorders, cardiovascular disease and reduced quality of life. Shah noted that nearly half of veterans aged 40 to 89 have low testosterone, making routine testing critical for readiness and long-term health.

In a Newsweek opinion piece, former Louisiana Governor Bobby Jindal and retired Lieutenant General Keith Kellogg endorsed the screenings as a boost to military readiness. They said service-related factors such as stress, brain injury and sleep deprivation can lower testosterone, affecting energy, mood and cognition. The policy applies to both male and female service members.

Shah acknowledged logistical hurdles for deployed troops, who may lack access to refrigeration or injectable medications. He said treatment plans must adapt to deployment realities, ensuring that service members can maintain care even in austere environments.