Prevalence of Left-handedness in China 2011: Small-area Estimates

Area of Science:

• Sociology
• Human Geography
• Epidemiology

Background:

• Left-handedness prevalence varies globally.
• Understanding geographic variations in left-handedness can offer insights into cultural and historical factors.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the geographic prevalence of left-handedness in China in 2011.
• To identify potential correlations between left-handedness prevalence and specific geographic or cultural areas.

Main Methods:

• Utilized nationally representative survey data from China, 2011.
• Employed small-area estimation techniques to determine provincial-level left-handedness rates.
• Measured handedness through self-reported dominant hand and hand grip strength, generating four distinct prevalence estimates.

Main Results:

• Four distinct estimates of left-handed prevalence at the provincial level showed high concordance.
• Identified geographic clusters with high rates of left-handedness.
• These clusters were notably located in ethnic minority-designated autonomous areas and historically revolutionary base areas.

Conclusions:

• Geographic variations in left-handedness prevalence exist in China.
• High-prevalence clusters may be linked to cultural values such as individual autonomy and equality, potentially stemming from historical defiance.
• Further research can explore the socio-cultural determinants of handedness.