Estimation of Stature From Percutaneous Palpable Measurements of Radius, Ulna, and Humerus Among South Indian Undergraduate Students: A Regression Analysis.

Introduction Estimation of stature from skeletal remains is a fundamental aspect of forensic anthropology and medico-legal investigations. Upper limb long bones, i.e., humerus, radius, and ulna, are commonly used for this purpose due to their strong correlation with body height. However, regression models are population-specific, necessitating region-based studies. The present study aims to estimate stature from upper limb bone lengths in an adult male population of Andhra Pradesh, South India. Materials and methods A cross-sectional study was conducted on 500 adult male subjects aged between 20 and 35 years in the South Indian population. Percutaneous measurements of the humerus, radius, and ulna were taken on the right side and left side using a standard measuring tape. Stature was measured using a stadiometer. Statistical analysis included calculation of mean, standard deviation, and correlation coefficients. Multiple linear regression analysis was performed to derive an equation for stature estimation. Analysis of variance (ANOVA) was used to assess the significance of the regression model. Results Multiple linear regression analysis demonstrated that the overall model was statistically significant (F = 219.275, p < 0.001). The model explained 72.7% of the variance in stature (R² = 0.727). Among the six predictors, right ulna length (B = 2.227, p < 0.001), left humerus length (B = 1.549, p < 0.001), and left radius length (B = 1.256, p < 0.001) were significant independent predictors of stature. In contrast, right humerus, right radius, and left ulna did not contribute significantly to the model after adjustment (p > 0.05). Multiple linear regression analysis demonstrated that the overall model was statistically significant (F = 219.275, p < 0.001). The model explained 72.7% of the variance in stature (R² = 0.727). Among the six predictors, right ulna length (B = 2.227, p < 0.001), left humerus length (B = 1.549, p < 0.001), and left radius length (B = 1.256, p < 0.001) were significant independent predictors of stature. In contrast, right humerus, right radius, and left ulna did not contribute significantly to the model after adjustment (p > 0.05). Conclusions Upper limb bones are a reliable predictor of stature, with the ulna being the most reliable bone for stature estimation in the male population of Andhra Pradesh. The regression equation derived in this study can be effectively used in forensic identification and anthropological assessments within similar populations.