A 65.24cm Record 7cm Smaller Than Previous, Weighing 6.5kg
Illiterate Due to Missing Formal Education for Treatment... Significant Social Activity Limitations
Expresses Wish to Repay Parents Who Devoted Themselves for Him
Esmaeil Gaderzadeh (20), officially registered in the Guinness World Records as the "smallest person in the world." Photo by Guinness World Records website
[Asia Economy Reporter Bang Je-il] Afshin Esmail Gaderzadeh (20) from Iran has been recognized by the Guinness World Records as the "world's smallest person."
On the 15th (local time), the British Daily Mail reported on Afshin, who became the officially certified shortest person in the world by Guinness World Records. Afshin's height is 65.24 cm, which is 7 cm shorter than the previous record holder, Edward Nino Hernandez (36).
Afshin weighed 700 grams at birth. Currently, Afshin, who suffers from severe dwarfism, weighs 6.5 kg. Having needed daily treatment for 20 years without fail, Afshin was unable to receive formal education and is illiterate because he could not study on his own. Due to physical limitations preventing him from moving freely by himself, the smartphone gifted by his family and friends serves as a window for him to communicate with the world. Although even the smallest smartphone is difficult for him to hold with both hands, he said he manages somehow.
Afshin's family has spared no effort to support his healthy life. His father, who works as a construction laborer, had to work devotedly to cover his son's medical and medication expenses.
Having endured numerous hardships due to his small stature, Afshin has been able to view his short height somewhat positively by being listed in the Guinness World Records as the "shortest man." Craig Glenday, editor of the Guinness World Records, said, "This new world record is a significant moment that will change Afshin's life. I believe he deserves to become famous."
After being officially registered in the Guinness World Records, Afshin said, "It feels like a dream. Being listed in the Guinness World Records means letting the whole world know who I am. It’s truly magical." He expressed that through this recognition, he hopes to ease the burden on his parents who have devoted themselves to his treatment for 20 years.
Following his Guinness World Records registration, Afshin visited the top floor of the Burj Khalifa, the "world's tallest building." He achieved one of the items on his bucket list. The Burj Khalifa, standing at 828 meters tall, is 1,320 times taller than Afshin.
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