Predictive Modeling of Stature from Digit Lengths in Bengali-speakingMuslim Youths
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.48165/jfmt.2026.43.02.11Keywords:
stature estimation, digit length, regression analysis, forensic anthropology, Bengali populationAbstract
Stature estimation is an important part of biological profiling and forensic identification; wherein complete remains are unavailable. This study investigated the effectiveness of digit lengths in the estimation of stature among Bengali-speaking Muslim young adults. Altogether 434 healthy individuals, including 214 males (age 20.46±1.76) and 220 females (age 20.40±2.57) from North 24 Parganas, West Bengal, participated voluntarily. Stature and bilateral digit lengths (Digit 1 to Digit 5) were measured through the standard anthropometric method. Prediction models were developed using univariate and multivariate regression analyses, respectively, for each sex. Weaker correlations were observed for digit lengths with stature (R² < 0.4), where the third digit followed by the second digit exhibited the highest associations. Multivariate models slightly enhanced prediction accuracy (Adjusted R² ≈ 0.40 in males; < 0.40 in females). These findings indicate that digit lengths alone can provide a limited reliability in the process of stature estimation in this population. It emphasizes the importance of integrating other anthropometric indices in order to enhance the predictive utility.
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