Anthropometry of Some Selected Linear Body Dimensions of Ijaws of Southern Nigeria

The aim of this study was to investigate the linear body anthropometry of Ijaws of southern Nigeria for future standardisation of three-dimensional negroid gross anatomical model. The research design was a non-experimental, cross-sectional design. The study made use of a total number of four hundred (400) participants whose ages ranged between 21 to 40 years with BMI range of 18.50 to <30.00. The Taro Yamane’s formula was used to determine the minimum sample size. BMI and linear body anthropometric measurements were taken using standiometer, calibrated flexible meter tape, meter rule and weighing scale. Statistical analysis was done using statistical package for the social science (SPSS version 25.0) and Microsoft Excel 2019. Continuous variables were presented as mean±SD; minimum and maximum. Age was categorized into two groups (21 – 30 and 31 – 40) years while Body Mass Index (BMI) was also categorized into two; normal weight (18.5 – 24.9 designated ? 25.0) and slightly overweight (25.0 – 30.7 designated ? 25.0). Independent sample t-test was therefore carried out to determine significant difference in the measured anthropometric variables across age and BMI groups. The confidence interval was set at 95%, therefore p< 0.05 was considered significant. Results were presented in tables. Age related changes and variations in BMI were also observed in the anthropometric parameters. These anthropometric values will find use in the standardization of negroid gross anatomical models for medical studies and forensics.

Key Words: Linear, Whole body, Gross, Anatomical Modelling, Yoruba, Negroid