Stature Estimation from Upper Limb Measurements in Healthy and Obese Children

Abstract

Background: The estimation of stature is an essential aspect of anthropometric studies, particularly in children, as it aids in monitoring growth and nutritional status. It is important to understand the relationship between upper limb dimensions and stature, especially for healthy and obese children, given the rising prevalence of childhood obesity. Aim: This study aimed to investigate the relationship between upper limb dimensions—arm length, forearm length, and hand length—and stature among healthy and obese children aged 5 to 12 years. Methodology: This cross-sectional study was conducted in Edo State, Ekpoma community involving 300 children selected through multistage sampling. Anthropometric measurements, including height, weight, arm length, forearm length, and hand length, were taken following standard protocols. Body Mass Index was calculated to categorize children as healthy or obese based on World Health Organization growth standards. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, t-tests, Pearson correlation, and multiple linear regression models to predict stature using upper limb dimensions. Results: The mean age of participants was 8.66 years, with an average height of 128.39 cm. Significant positive correlations were observed between height and upper limb dimensions, with arm length (r = 0.865, p < 0.001), forearm length (r = 0.811, p < 0.001), and hand length (r = 0.857, p < 0.001). The regression model showed that upper limb dimensions explained 83% of the variance in stature (R² = 0.83, p < 0.001), with hand length being the strongest predictor (β = 0.349, p < 0.001). However, logistic regression analysis found that upper limb dimensions poorly predicted underweight status. Conclusion: Upper limb dimensions are reliable predictors of stature in children, emphasizing their utility in anthropometric assessments; and hold promise for clinical and field use, though their role in assessing nutritional status (like underweight) requires further study.