Anthropometric study of hand length and its correlation with stature in an adult population: A cross-sectional study.

Dr Palla Radha  Krishna

doi:10.51168/sjhrafrica.v6i12.2246

Authors

Dr. Palla Radha Krishna Associate Professor, Department of Anatomy, Government Medical College and General Hospital, Jogulamba Gadwal, Telangana, India

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.51168/sjhrafrica.v6i12.2246

Keywords:

Hand length, Stature estimation, Anthropometry, Correlation, Regression model, Forensic identification

Abstract

Background:
Anthropometric indicators such as hand length play a valuable role in estimating stature when complete body measurements are unavailable, particularly in forensic identification, emergency settings, and anthropological profiling.

Objectives:
To measure hand length among adults and examine its correlation with stature, and to develop a regression equation for height estimation in the study population.

Methods:
A cross-sectional study was conducted among 100 healthy adults aged 18–45 years. Stature was measured using a stadiometer, and hand length was recorded bilaterally using a standard sliding caliper. Mean values for both hands were used for analysis. Participants were categorized into stature groups for comparative evaluation. Pearson’s correlation assessed the relationship between hand length and stature, while linear regression generated a predictive equation. Results were stratified by sex to examine variability across gender.

Results:
The mean stature of the participants was 165.4 ± 8.2 cm, whereas the mean hand length measured 18.7 ± 1.2 cm. Males exhibited higher values for both parameters compared with females. A consistent rise in hand length was observed across increasing stature categories. Pearson’s correlation demonstrated a strong positive association between hand length and stature in the total sample (r = 0.71, p < 0.001). Correlation values remained significant among males (r = 0.68) and females (r = 0.63). Linear regression identified hand length as a significant predictor of stature, yielding the equation: Stature (cm) = 54.12 + 5.94 × Hand Length (cm) with an R² of 0.51.

Conclusion:
Hand length shows a robust linear relationship with stature and can serve as a practical parameter for height estimation in adults. The regression model developed in this study provides a reliable reference for clinical, forensic, and anthropological use.

Recommendations:
Further studies with larger, multi-center samples and inclusion of additional limb anthropometric markers are recommended to enhance predictive accuracy.

Author Biography

Dr. Palla Radha Krishna, Associate Professor, Department of Anatomy, Government Medical College and General Hospital, Jogulamba Gadwal, Telangana, India

is an Associate Professor in the Department of Anatomy at Government Medical College and General Hospital, Jogulamba Gadwal, Telangana. He has extensive teaching and research experience in anatomical sciences and medical education. Before joining GMC Jogulamba Gadwal, he served as an Assistant Professor at Government Medical College, Suryapet, where he contributed to undergraduate training and departmental academic activities. His professional interests include anthropometry, anatomical variations, and applied clinical anatomy. He actively participates in institutional research initiatives and curriculum development. Dr. Radha Krishna maintains an ongoing commitment to academic growth and collaborative research. ORCID: https://orcid.org/0009-0007-5176-546

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