Finger Length Ratio and Body Composition In Chuvashians

Area of Science:

• Anthropology
• Human Biology
• Radiology

Background:

• Limited research exists on the association between finger length ratio (2D:4D) and body composition in adults.
• Existing studies present diverse and inconclusive findings.
• The 2D:4D ratio is a potential marker influenced by prenatal hormone exposure.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the association between the 2D:4D ratio and various body composition indices in a large Chuvashian adult population.
• To determine if body composition mediates the relationship between 2D:4D ratio and health outcomes.
• To clarify the link between finger proportions and anthropometric measurements.

Main Methods:

• Radiographic assessment of the 2D:4D ratio from hand radiographs in 802 males and 783 females.
• Classification of hand types based on index and ring finger lengths (Type 1, 2, 3).
• Collection of anthropometric data including body weight, stature, and six circumferences (BMI, WC, hip, chest, WHT, WCR).

Main Results:

• No substantial associations were found between the visually assessed 2D:4D ratio and adult BMI, waist circumference (WC), hip, chest circumferences, WHT, or WCR in either sex.
• The findings were consistent across both male and female participants.
• The study did not identify body composition as a significant mediator in the 2D:4D ratio relationship.

Conclusions:

• The study suggests that associations between the 2D:4D ratio and hormone-related conditions are likely direct.
• The mediating effect of adult body composition parameters on the 2D:4D ratio appears negligible.
• These results provide a clearer interpretation of the 2D:4D ratio's role in health, independent of body composition.