Estimation of stature from measurements of foot length, knee height, and head length in Northwest Ethiopia

Abstract

Introduction: The estimation of individual stature is an imperative component in the forensic analysis of unknown human remains. The stature of an individual is an inherent characteristic that varies with race and ethnicity. Aim: The aim of the present study is to determine the relationship between foot length, knee height, and head length with the stature to generate a regression formula for estimation of stature. Materials and method: One hundred eighty-two students (90 males and 92 females) of College of Medicine and Health Sciences with age range of 18 to 26 participated in the study. The foot length, knee height, and head length were measured in centimeter using digital Vernier caliper and stature with vertically place metallic measuring instrument. The data were analyzed using SPSS version-20. The data were compared using Student’s t-test. P<0.05 was considered as statistically significant. Results: The measurements of stature, foot length and knee height showed statistically significant difference between males and females (P< 0.05). The mean values of stature, knee height and foot length are found to be 11.05 cm, 3.36 cm and 2.11 cm greater in males than females. Multiple regression equation for stature estimation obtained was stature =28.94+1.5 (FL)+1.66 (KH)+0.7 (HL); stature =75.8+1.73 (FL)+0.92 (KH)–0.21 (HL), for males and females, respectively. Conclusion: Foot length and knee height are of supreme importance for the determination of stature.. Key Words: Stature; Foot length; Knee height; Head length; Ethiopia.