Anthropometric-hormonal correlation patterns in San and Kavango males from Namibia.

Area of Science:

• Anthropology
• Endocrinology
• Human Biology

Background:

• Previous studies on sex hormone levels and body dimensions were limited to Caucasian populations.
• Understanding these correlations in diverse ethnic groups is crucial for a comprehensive view of human adaptation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the correlations between sex hormone levels and body dimensions in !Kung San and Kavango men from Namibia.
• To compare these correlations with a German population to assess their stability across different ecological and economic conditions.

Main Methods:

• Radioimmunoassay was used to determine serum androgens (testosterone, 5 alpha-dihydrotestosterone) and oestradiol, as well as salivary free testosterone.
• Factor analysis was applied to 50 anthropometric features to derive seven key body dimension factors.
• Statistical analysis was performed to correlate hormone levels and ratios with individual measurements and factor scores.

Main Results:

• Significant correlations were observed between sex hormone variables and body measurements/factor scores in both Namibian groups.
• Breadth measurements consistently correlated with hormones and hormone ratios across all studied populations.
• Correlations with other body measurements and factor scores showed less stability, indicating population-specific influences.

Conclusions:

• Sex hormone levels are linked to body dimensions in diverse populations, but the strength and nature of these correlations vary.
• Genetic and environmental factors significantly modulate the relationship between sex hormones and physical growth.
• This study highlights the importance of considering population-specific factors in understanding human biological variation.