Sexual Dimorphism in Hand and Foot Length, Indices, Stature-ratio and Relationship to Height in Nigerians

Studies have established sexual dimorphism in hand and foot lengths for forensic applications. The present investigation was conducted to study hand and foot lengths, stature ratio and indices for sex differences. Data for the study were obtained from 250 males (mean age 24.50 ± 2.82) and 150 females (mean age 22.22 ± 1.99) randomly selected students of the Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, Nigeria. Height, length and width of hand and foot were measured following standard protocols. In all anthropometric parameters measured or calculated males were significantly (P<0.001) higher. Significant relationships were established between hand and foot lengths in both sexes. Multiple linear regression analysis of hand and foot lengths generated predictive equations with statistical significant (P <0.001) ability for height prediction. Height could be accurately predicted from a combination of right and left hand and foot lengths which will be useful in forensic investigation.