Lionel Messi was diagnosed with growth hormone deficiency (GHD) when he was 11 years old. This condition, also known as growth hormone disorder, is a rare condition that affects between 1 in 3,000 to 1 in 10,000 children. It occurs when the pituitary gland doesn't produce enough growth hormone, which is essential for normal growth and development.
Messi’s condition was discovered after he was found to be significantly shorter than his peers, and he had hardly grown over several years. As a result, he required daily injections of growth hormone to help him grow.
While GHD can be a challenging condition, Messi's determination and talent allowed him to overcome it and become one of the greatest footballers of all time. He is a testament to the fact that with the right support and perseverance, individuals can achieve their goals even in the face of medical challenges.
