3. Original Scientific Paper
Abstract

Physical anthropometry is relevant towards the advancement of biological anthropology. The aim of this study was to predict stature from the digit and toe lengths of adult Kalabari people of South-Southern Nigeria. This was a cross-sectional and descriptive study. 142 Kalabari adult subjects (72 males and 70 females) between the ages of 18 – 45 were consented and linear parameters such as height (stature), toe and finger (digit) length for both hands were obtained using stadiometer and metre rule. All collected data were analyzed using STATA statistical software version 12.The means of digit and toe length parameters were higher in males compared to females. A moderate positive relationship between stature and digit length in both sexes compared to toe length (at p < 0.05) was seen. For males, simple regression equations developed for R2D, R4D, L2D and L4D were -0.089 + 0.212 x R2D, 0.106 + 0.181 x R4D; 0.05 + 0.198 x L2D; and 0.247 + 0.167 x L4D, respectively. While R2T, R4T, L2T and L4T were 1.129 + 0.128 x R2T, 1.429 + 0.102 x R4T; 1.12 + 0.127 x L2T; and 1.444 + 0.094 x L4T, respectively. For females, simple regression equations developed for R2D, R4D, L2D and L4D were 0.681 + 0.116 x R2D, -0.221 + 0.218 x R4D; 0.281 + 0.168 x L2D; -0.376 + 0.239 x L4D, respectively. While R2T, R4T, L2T and L4T were 0.748 + 0.208 x R2T; 1.374 + 0.109 x R4T; 0.782 + 0.199 x L2T; 1.46 + 0.068 x L4T, respectively. Conclusively, both digit and toe lengths could predict the stature of the Kalabari adult population. Linear regression formulas can serve as forensic guides towards their identification.

Download Complete Article

Leave a Reply

Article Information


Article Authors

Category


Keywords