Vybz Kartel was yesterday afternoon released from the University Hospital of the West Indies in St Andrew where he had been undergoing medical treatment.

According to sources close to the Jamaica Observer, the incarcerated deejay had been at the institution since Sunday and was being treated for a thyroid-related issue.

Dexter Thompson, director of Corporate Communications and Public Relations at the St Catherine Adult Correctional Facility in Spanish Town, confirmed that the deejay was “transferred to hospital”, but did not give specifics.

“Mr Palmer was transferred to hospital. He was receiving medical treatment,” he told the Observer yesterday. “This is not the first time Mr Palmer has been taken to hospital.”

The thyroid is a butterfly-shaped gland in the front of the neck. It produces hormones that control the speed of a person’s metabolism — the system that helps the body use energy. Thyroid disorders can slow down or rev up metabolism by disrupting the production of thyroid hormones.

In recent times, the deejay has been undergoing medical challenges.

In July 2015, he was taken to doctors at the University Hospital of the West Indies due to a severe skin inflammation. His visit created quite a security concern as scores of fans converged on the hospital to get a glimpse of him.

And a similar situation occurred two years later at the same facility when he was being treated for a kidney-related issue.

Vybz Kartel’s attorney, Valerie Neita-Robertson, said her client is on the mend.

“He wasn’t feeling well, but he’s feeling much better now,” she told the Observer.

Vybz Kartel (given name Adidja Palmer) is currently serving a life sentence following his murder conviction in relation to the death of Clive “Lizard” Williams in April 2014. He will be eligible for parole after 35 years.

Kartel’s co-accused, Shawn “Shawn Storm” Campbell and Kahira Jones, are to serve 25 years before they are eligible for parole, while Andre St John will do 30 years before qualifying for eligibility.

He is currently appealing his conviction.

Despite being behind bars, Vybz Kartel’s music continues to be in demand.