Great Height, Greater Hardships: The Daily Struggles of One of the World's Tallest Men (5 Photos)
One of the world’s tallest men is currently battling severe health issues in a London care home. Standing at 7 ft 7 in (2.32 m), Somali refugee Hussein Bisad is facing serious medical complications following a kidney transplant. He dreams of reuniting with his wife so they can build a life together in London.
The 46-year-old has endured severe health struggles over the past five years. His condition forced the Somali refugee to move into a care facility, as he requires dialysis three times a day.
Doctors believe he suffers from pituitary gigantism, a condition in which the body produces far more growth hormone than average.
Hussein admits he dislikes being so tall, as his height causes constant difficulties in everyday life. Born in Somalia, he was of average height as a child until he started the second grade, when his growth suddenly surged. When he returned to school after summer break, his teacher refused to believe he was Hussein and sent him home, forcing his father to accompany him back to school to verify his identity.
By the age of 13, he had outgrown both his parents and his twin sister, who stands at 5 ft 5 in (1.65 m). A custom desk and chair had to be built for him at school.
Hussein moved to the UK in 2002 and became an instant sensation after claiming to be the tallest man in the world at 7 ft 7 in (2.32 m). He appeared on the covers of major newspapers and magazines. However, official measurements by Guinness World Records placed him second, denying him the top title. Nevertheless, he still set a world record—for having the largest hands of any living person.
While his extreme height brought him international fame, it also brought constant hardship. He wears custom-made size 66 shoes and spends up to £700 on tailored suits. He even required a custom 9-foot-long (2.7 m) bed just to fit comfortably.
His medical issues remain his biggest hurdle. Following a kidney transplant, Hussein can no longer walk unassisted. He relies on crutches and tires very quickly.
He hopes to leave the care home soon and travel to Somalia to bring his wife, Yasmin, back to London so they can finally live together.
While Hussein struggles with the daily challenges of his stature, many men dream of gaining extra height. The LimbplastX Institute, a US clinic, offers a surgical procedure that allows patients to "grow" by up to 6 inches (15 cm).











