Height estimation using forearm and lower leg lengths in healthy young individuals

Area of Science:

• Anthropometry
• Biometrics
• Human Physiology

Background:

• Accurate height measurement is crucial for various health assessments.
• Traditional height measurement can be challenging in certain situations.
• Limb lengths offer potential for noninvasive height estimation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and validate a regression equation for predicting height.
• To utilize forearm and lower leg lengths for height estimation.
• To establish a simple, noninvasive method for assessing height in young individuals.

Main Methods:

• Recruited 81 university students (41 males, 40 females).
• Measured standing height, supine height, forearm length, and lower leg length.
• Analyzed data using correlation and regression analysis.

Main Results:

• A strong correlation (r=0.846) was found between total limb length and standing height.
• Developed regression equation: height (cm) = 1.6 × total length (cm) + 67.0.
• The equation achieved a coefficient of determination of 0.72.

Conclusions:

• The developed formula provides a quick and noninvasive height estimation method.
• Requires only a standard tape measure, making it equipment-light.
• Applicable in diverse settings like disaster medicine, emergency response, school health, and nutritional assessments.