Body bulid and nutritional status of three ethnic groups inhabiting the same locality in Northern Nigeria

Main objective of this study is to determine variables related to body build and blood status of three different ethnic groups inhabiting the same locality in Northern Nigeria. Of a stratified sample of the adult male population of a village community anthropometric measurements were taken. Body build of full grown men of each of the local Fulani, Hausa and Maguzawa tribes was recorded. This included height, weight, total and muscle arm-circumference, triceps and biceps skinfolds and the determination of the Quetelet and Ponderal indices. Fulani have the same stature as Hausa and Maguzawa but they have a more linear body type, less body mass, a lesser triceps skinfold, a lower Quetelet but a higher Ponderal index. The caloric intake of the local population is considered marginally sufficient, especially for Fulani, who may have a higher energy expenditure. Malaria and Schistosoma haematobium infections are highly endemic in the area and deteriorate the nutritional state. This is more evident in Hausa and Maguzawa than in Fulani, as is a degree of anaemia probably due to iron deficiency. In the Fulani the interaction of diet and infection appears to be more complex.