Relationship of Fingerprints with Blood Group and Sex-A Comparative Study

Fingerprints are a unique pattern of friction ridges, which remain constant throughout one's lifetime. Several studies have shown an association between fingerprint patterns, blood groups, and gender. This study was prompted by limited studies in this population.

To identify the correlation between fingerprints with blood groups and sex.

A cross-sectional study was undertaken in a specific population in India. A total of 50 samples (25 males and 25 females), aged 3 to 63 years, were recruited. Patterns of all 10 fingers were recorded, and the blood group identified as ABO and Rh system. In total, 500 fingerprint samples were analyzed against sex and blood group. The association between parameters was obtained using the Chi-square test.

Loops were the common pattern observed, followed by whorls, composites, and arches. Loop were common in males, while whorls in females, but no significant association was found between patterns and sex. Most frequently encountered pattern were whorls on ring fingers, arches on index fingers, composites on thumb, and loops on middle and little fingers, in both males and females. Loops were common amongst ABO blood groups, except in AB blood group which showed prevalence of whorls. Loops were the most prevalent pattern in both Rh +ve and Rh -ve groups. Significant association was found between fingerprints with ABO blood group (p<0.001).

This study identified associations between fingerprints patterns and ABO blood groups and specific digits, but not with sex. For validation and application, further research with larger sample size is needed.