Index and ring finger lengths and their correlation with stature in a Nigerian population

Abstract

Introduction: This study was carried out to determine the relationship of the index and ring fingers to stature for the purpose of predicting stature in a Nigerian population. Materials and Methods: Measurement of various parameters was done with the aid of a digital stadiometer and a digital Vernier caliper. The stadiometer was used to measure the heights of individuals, while the digital Vernier caliper was used to measure the lengths of the right index (R2D) and right ring (R4D) fingers. Statistical analysis, which included the t-test, Pearson correlation, and regression analysis, was carried out with the aid of SPSS version 19.0. Results: From the results, it can be seen that all parameters investigated were higher in males (P < 0.05) and that the correlations between R2D and stature and between R4D and stature were significant across gender. Our results also showed that it is possible to estimate the stature of an unknown Nigerian from the lengths of the second and fourth digits. Conclusion: Thus, this study has demonstrated a means of identification, especially in case of accident with lacerated remains in Nigeria. This paper is recommended to forensic experts, road safety officers, and the Government of Nigeria for the aforementioned purposes.