Stature Estimation Using Arm Span, Arm Length, Forearm-hand Length, and Foot Length of Hausa Ethnic Group of Nigeria

Abstract

Background: Stature estimation has been useful in identifying body remains, especially during earthquakes, accidents, fire disasters, and other disasters. Aim: To predict stature estimation using arm span, arm length, forearm-hand length and foot length among the Hausa ethnic group of Nigeria. Methods: The study adopted a descriptive cross-sectional study design with a total of 300 subjects, (150 males and 150 females) between the ages of 18-35 years recruited for the study. The mega-size calliper was used to measure the anthropometric variables. Data analysis was done using a statistical package for social sciences version 23. Multivariate regression was used to estimate sex and stature. A probability less than 0.05 (p<0.05) was considered statistically significant and 95% was denoted as confidence level. Results: The multivariate regression among the sexes to estimate stature using arm span, arm length, forearm-hand length, and foot length shows (R=0.81, SEE= 4.23). The stature predictive power of females was (R= 0.77, SEE=3.67) and males’ stature (R= 0.69, SEE=4.70). The highest correlation was found in females between arm span and stature (r=0.71) and males between foot length and stature (r=0.75). Conclusion: The study observed that arm span and foot length show a positive correlation between stature in both sexes. However, arm and forearm-hand lengths show a moderate positive correlation. This research will be useful in forensics, anthropology and bioarchaeology.