Stature estimation formulae from radiographically determined limb bone length in a modern Japanese population

Abstract

The objective of this study was to derive regression formulae for stature estimation from long limb bones in a Japanese population. Moreover, commonly employed estimation equations, such as that of Fujii, were re-evaluated through application of current data. To construct equations, measurements were conducted on 434 living subjects (342 females and 92 males; 18–59 years old). The whole or maximum length of the femur, tibia, and humerus was determined radiographically using dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry, which permitted measurement of long bones with no magnification. Regression formulae were constructed for females and males relative to the real body height measured in the erect position. Lower limbs of the femur and tibia were more accurate predictors ( R = 0.813–0.903) than the humerus was ( R = 0.670–0.708). Multiple regression models were produced for all three bones and the two leg bones, revealing no significant difference between R values. Comparison of these equations with those of earlier studies of Andou and Fujii verified differences in estimated stature, indicating that stature estimation formulae should be constructed based on current data obtained from precise physical measurements. These equations will benefit forensic anthropology and nutrition science for stature estimation of contemporary Japanese individuals.