Girth Anthropometric Variation: a cross-sectional study between Hausa, Igbo, and Yoruba ethnic groups of Nigeria

Girth anthropometry involves measuring the circumferences of various body parts, including the neck, upper arm, chest, mid-thigh, waist, and hips. These measurements are essential in numerous fields, impacting health, fitness, fashion, and forensic investigations. The study aims to evaluate grith anthropometric variation between the Hausa, Igbo and Yoruba ethnic groups of Nigeria. The study adopted a cross-sectional descriptive study design where it comprised 1500 subjects (500 Hausa, 500 Igbo and 500 Yoruba) between 18-40 years. The subjects were sampled using a multi-stage random sampling technique and the minimum sample size was determined using Taro Yamane. The data were collected using a non-stretchable measuring tape and the data obtained were analyzed using IBM SPSS version 25. T-test and ANOVA were used as inferential statistics. The analysis of sex-related differences in girth anthropometry among the Hausa, Igbo, and Yoruba ethnic groups in Nigeria reveals that males generally have higher mean values than females in various body measurements. Significant differences were found in neck and mid-arm circumferences for the Hausa ethnic group, while the Igbo ethnic group showed significant differences only in neck circumference. The Yoruba group exhibited significant differences in neck, mid-arm, chest, hip, and mid-thigh circumferences. Ethnic variations in girth measurements were observed among both males and females across all three groups. The study found noticeable sex—and ethnic-related differences in girth anthropometry among the Hausa, Igbo, and Yoruba ethnic groups in Nigeria. The findings will have health, forensic, and industrial implications.

Key Words: anthropometry, health, forensic investigation, Hausa, Igbo and Yoruba