Afshin Esmaeil Ghaderzadeh: 20-Year-Old Breaks Record as World's Shortest Man

• Afshin Esmaeil Ghaderzadeh has been confirmed by Guinness World Records as the world's shortest man
• The 20-year-old man was flown to Dubai and his height had to be measured three times within the span of 24 hours for precision
• The Iranian national is the fourth shortest man, measuring 65.24 cm (2 feet 1.6 inches)

Afshin Esmaeil Ghaderzadeh born on July 13, 2002, in Iran didn't know his height would one day be a blessing in disguise.

Afshin measuring 65.24 cm (2 feet 1.6 inches) is the shortest man living, breaking his predecessor's record by almost 7cm (2.7 inches)

Colombian Edward Hernandez was known by many as "Niño" was 70 cm (2 feet 3.5 inches).

Afshin Esmaeil Ghaderzadeh Childhood

Afshin was discovered in a remote village located in Bukan county in Iran. He was born with a body weight of 700 grams and has grown now to about 6.5 kilograms.

Growing up in Northern Iran wasn't a walk in the park. He wasn't able to attend school due to his size therefore it's no surprise that Afshin has struggled with literacy for years.

However, he is thrilled to have recently learnt how to write his name. His father, Esmaeil Ghaderzadeh, told Guinness World Records :

“Continuing treatment and my son's physical weakness are the main reasons why he stopped studying, otherwise he has no mental problems.”

How Afshin spends his days

Despite the fact that Afshi's family works hard they admit to struggling to provide enough for his living expenses, medicine and treatment.

The 20-year-old short stature renders him unable to get employment in his village. He spends most of his days watching animation.

Afshin is well-informed and knows how to use a smartphone despite finding it difficult to carry. He told Guinness World Record:

“Phones in general are heavy to use for a long time, yet I still manage.”