Estimation of stature from arm span in medical students of Maharashtra, India

Abstract

Background:Stature can be estimated from body parameters in dead and mutilated bodies using regression equation or multiplication factor. However, regression equations and multiplication factors are specific for the region only and can’t be used in all population.Aim:To formulate regression equation and multiplication factor for the estimation of stature from arm span (AS) for a region in Maharashtra, India.Subjects and Methods:It was a cross-sectional study, did over a period of 2 years, from October 2011 to September 2013. Four hundred students of three Government medical colleges of Maharashtra, aged 18–24 years were enrolled in the study. Stature and AS were measured and subjected to statistical analysis. Unpaired t-test and simple linear regression were used.Results:Stature and AS of 400 medical students (219 males and 181 females) were measured. Subjects were divided into six groups depending upon age. Simple regression equation and multiplication factor for male and female and for each age group were derived for estimation of stature. We found correlation coefficient (R) of 0.89 in male and 0.90 in female using simple regression, which shows strong correlation between stature and AS.Conclusion:Mean stature and AS of male were more than female with statistical significance. Stature can be accurately estimated from AS using simple regression equation or multiplication factor.

Stature Estimation from the Measures of Upper Limb Segments in Hisar Population Migrated from India

“…The present study elucidated the correlations between various upper limb segment measurements and stature among the male population of Hisar, who are relatively understudied in anthropometric research. The findings revealed strong and statistically significant correlations, particularly with the wingspan, brachial lengths, and total upper limb lengths, echoing the results of earlier research that highlighted the reliability of these measurements in stature estimation (14,15). For instance, the robust correlation observed between wingspan and stature (R=0.800) is in alignment with the strong correlations reported in other regional studies such as those by Supare et al (14) and Chawla et al (15), who explored similar anthropometric relationships within different Indian populations.…”

Measurement error in anthropometric studies and its significance in forensic casework

“…In this regard, research by Supare et al . [ 4 ] in Annals of Medical and Health Sciences Research is a useful addition to the existing literature.…”

“…In this regard, the very important issue of observer bias also needs to be addressed. Noninclusion of aforementioned technical aspects in the study[ 4 ] can be considered as one of the weak links in terms of the study results.…”

“…The observations of the study by Supare et al . [ 4 ] thus, may have a limited applicability on the general population in the region. A truly random sample population regarding ethnicity, socioeconomic status, and nutrition, etc., may thus be necessary to determine a reliable level of error in this regard.…”