Discriminant Function Models for Determination of Sex Using Anthropometric Foot Dimensions in an Adult Nigerian Population

Abstract

Background: Sex, age, race and stature are evaluated to determine the identity in forensic investigations. The most important stages in identity determination are stature and sex estimations which are easily done with primary anatomic structures in intact corpses. determination of sex from skeletal or dismembered body remains is one of the most critical aspects of forensic analysis which is crucial to medico-legal investigations.Aim: This study is aimed at testing the validity of sex classification using anthropometric foot dimensions and discriminant function test in an adult Nigerian population. Methods: 222 subjects (115 males and 107 females) of Nigerian parentage, aged 18-65 years who volunteered and satisfied the inclusion criteria were involved. Following institutional approval, anthropometric measurements of Foot Length (FL), Foot width (FW), Bimalleolar width (BB), Navicular height (NH), Medial malleolar height (MMH), Lateral malleolar height (LMH), Heel Width (HB) were measured. The data was analyzed for descriptive and inferential statistics using the SPSS statistical package version 25 and Microsoft excel 2016.Results: Independent t test exhibited statistically significant sex differences (P < 0.05) for all the parameters, with the males having consistently higher values than the females. Linear discriminant functions were created for predicting sex. Conclusion:The prediction models established from this study will be useful in disaster victim identification from mutilated or dismembered human remains to aid medico-legal practice in Nigeria. The normative data developed from this study will be referenced and be used as baseline data for comparing the variations of foot structure of this population and that of other populations.