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Hitler likely suffered from a genetic disorder: What is Kallman Syndrome?

FP Explainers November 14, 2025, 16:00:23 IST

Was the world’s most feared dictator suffering from a genetic disorder? A new documentary that has analysed Hitler’s DNA reveals that he may have had Kallmann syndrome, which can thwart the development of sexual organs

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A picture dated 1939 shows German Nazi Chancellor Adolf Hitler giving the Bazi salute during a rally next to "Deputy Furhrer" Rudolf Hess. File photo/AFP
A picture dated 1939 shows German Nazi Chancellor Adolf Hitler giving the Bazi salute during a rally next to "Deputy Furhrer" Rudolf Hess. File photo/AFP

It’s perhaps the most definitive account of the most hated man in history. His rapid ascent to power, responsible for horrific crimes during World War II – we are talking about the infamous Nazi leader, and the recently surfaced intriguing details of Adolf Hitler’s biology.  

Recent studies have revealed new insights about the dictator’s personal biology, which also suggests that he has had a rare genetic condition known as Kallmann syndrome. This syndrome can lead to symptoms like micropenis, AFP reported.  

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The syndrome can also inhibit the normal progression of puberty, denoting the possibility that he would have struggled to form a sexual relationship.  

These intriguing yet deep details came to the surface after a DNA test of Hitler’s blood.

So, what’s this Kallmann syndrome? And was the wartime chant “Hitler has got only one ball” about his solitary testicle correct?

Let’s deep dive.

Hitler has got only one ball: The famous wartime song

The Führer of the German Reich, Adolf Hitler, was mocked by the British with a satirical song from World War II, Hitler Has Only Got One Ball.

It was the product of British wartime propaganda, ridiculing Hitler’s physical attributes, suggesting that he had only one testicle.

However far the Nazi leader’s enemies went in mocking him, it appears they hit the nail on the head.  

New analysis of his DNA has discovered that the dictator had a rare genetic condition known as Kallmann syndrome.  

This disorder affects sexual development, leading to underdeveloped genitalia.  

University of Potsdam, Alex Kay, said, “No one has ever really been able to explain why Hitler was so uncomfortable around women throughout his life, or why he probably never entered into intimate relations with women."  

“Since now we know that he had Kallmann Syndrome, this could be the answer we’ve been looking for,” he furthered.  

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Now, these research findings can be watched in a new documentary – Hitler’s DNA: Blueprint of a Dictator.

Kallmann Syndrome, explained

Kallmann Syndrome is a genetic disorder that causes delayed puberty and may affect the sense of smell. It may also occur due to a genetic change.  

It is found more commonly in males compared to females. People between the ages of eight and 15 are more prone to this disorder.  

According to experts, if puberty does not start in adolescence, the child’s healthcare provider should begin to look for possible reasons.  

Kallmann Syndrome has a range of symptoms that may appear in childhood or adulthood.  

Such as a lack of breast development in girls, while boys face small penis and testicles. Balance issues are common in both girls and boys.  

Dental abnormalities, including missing teeth or small teeth, are common symptoms, as are irregular periods in women, loss of sense of smell and mood swings.  

Researchers have pointed out that a person can inherit these gene variations in various ways from their biological parents.  

It can also happen during fetal development. Often, changes occur due to no known reason; however, children can inherit the changes from their biological parents  

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Hitler’s DNA: Blueprint of a Dictator- Dubious documentary

The two-part documentary is all set to broadcast on Saturday on Channel 4 in the UK. It offers a striking glimpse into the biological aspects of the notorious man in history.  

The production company behind the documentary said, “Analysis of the DNA debunks this myth by showing that the Y chromosome data matches the DNA of Hitler’s male line relative."  

“If he had Jewish ancestry (through an outside relationship), that match wouldn’t be there,” the company added.  

With inputs from agencies

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