ESTIMATION OF STATURE USING THE CLAVICULAR LENGTH OF ADULTS IN SOUTH-EASTERN NIGERIAN

Abstract

Background: Estimation of stature from the clavicular length is utilized in anthropological research and in forensics for identification of mutilated bodies. The aim of this study was to assess the relationship between stature and clavicular length in South Eastern Nigeria.

Materials and Methods: One thousand subjects (500 males and 500 females) aged 18-35 years were studied. The subjects were grouped into group1 (18-24years), group 2 (25-31 years) and group 3 (>31 years). The length of the clavicle was measured with a Vernier caliper. The values obtained were analyzed with Statistical package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 20.

Results: There was statistically significant positive correlation between stature and lengths of the right and left clavicle (p≤0.01) across all the groups in both sexes, with the exception of group 1 in females, where the correlation was not significant. (p₌0.140). There was significant positive correlation between the lengths of the left and right clavicle (p≤0.01). There was significant sexual dimorphism (p≤0.05) in the lengths of the clavicle. A regression equation for males was more reliable than for females in estimating stature from clavicular length.

Conclusion: Lengths of the clavicle may be used to estimate stature in especially in males in South Eastern Nigeria.