Secular trend in skeletal growth among urban Japanese during the Edo period (1603–1867)

Abstract

ObjectiveThe present study aims to investigate whether any secular change in growth occurred among the urban populations during the Edo period (1603–1867). During this time, the preconditions for industrialization were established through rapid urbanization, population increase, and economic development. MaterialsNinety subadult and 189 adult skeletal remains were recovered from eight Edo-period burial sites in Tokyo were examined. MethodsMaximum femoral lengths were measured and compared between the early and late Edo periods. ResultsWhile subadults of the late Edo period—especially of higher status—tended to have longer femoral lengths, the adult males tended to have slightly shorter femoral lengths. No clear difference was found among adult females. ConclusionsThere was no clear or consistent secular change in growth patterns or in adult stature. The impact of social and economic transformations in 17th-century Japan on growth and on general health status remains unclear. SignificanceThis is the first study to examine the impact of social changes on growth immediately before the industrialization of Japan. It will be helpfull to understand the complex relationship between human growth and social changes. LimitationsChanges in growth patterns may have been obscured by the small sample size, errors in estimating age and femoral lengths, temporary changes in growth in the late Edo period, or catch-up growth. Suggestions for Further ResearchRe-examining with a larger sample, introducing more precise dating of burials and more precise age estimation methods, and examining multiple physiological stress indicators are necessary.