Prediction of the Body Stature According to Certain Anthropometric Variables of Longitudinal Dimensionality

Abstract

Background: Stature estimation is a crucial aspect of physical anthropology, forensic science, and bioarchaeology. It involves determining or predicting an individual’s body height using measurable body parameters. Aim: This study investigates the potential of arm span and foot length as predictors of stature among individuals in Imo State, Nigeria. Methods: The study, which employed a descriptive cross-sectional design, was conducted with a rigorous methodology. A total sample of 300 subjects (150 males and 150 females) aged 18 to 35 years was recruited for the study, and a mega-sized calliper was used to measure the anthropometric variables. The data analysis was performed with the International Business Machines version of the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS, version 23). The linear regression used to estimate sex and stature was a reliable statistical method. A probability of less than 0.05 (p<0.05) was considered statistically significant, with 95% denoted as the confidence level, ensuring the validity of the results. Results: A strong positive correlation was observed in all subjects between stature, arm span, and foot length (R = 0.88). The predictive power of stature in males (R = 0.83) and females (R = 0.76) was also notable. Significant sexual dimorphism was noted in all parameters.    Conclusion: This study assesses stature estimation using arm span and foot length of the Indigenous people of Imo State, Nigeria. It demonstrates a strong positive correlation among the subjects. However, arm span and foot length exhibited a positive correlation with stature in males but showed a weak correlation in females. The practical implications of these findings are significant for forensic sciences, anthropology, medical sciences, and bioarchaeology.