Middle Finger is an Estimate of Stature

Abstract

Unknown bodies pose a big challenge and demand an extra effort from the Forensic Expert. The task of a Forensic Expert in the Mortuary in an Unknown body is to note down all the data available to fix the Identity. Numerous equations and formulae are available to deduce the stature from various big bones[1]. This study has been taken up to corroborate the findings of those few studies which were already done, with the same methodology[3]. Since stature varies with race, sex and geographical locations, the present study was done to see the relationship of middle finger length with stature in Mahbubnagar District. The present study was carried out in the department of Forensic Medicine and Toxicology at SVS Medical College, Mahbubnagar, Telangana State. A total of 200 subjects were included in the study, out of which 100 were males and 100 were females within the age group of 18 to 23 years. Middle finger lengths of both sides were recorded along with stature of the person. The data collected was subjected to statistical analysis using statistical package for social sciences (SPSS) to know the correlation of the stature with the middle finger length. The reliability of estimation of stature from the lengths of middle finger was determined with the help of ‘p’ value, SEE, r, r Square and regression equations. A moderate correlation was observed between middle finger length and height of a person which is statistically highly significant.