Related Experiment Videos
The evolution of stature in humans
1Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine, University of California, Davis 95616.
Hormone Research
|January 1, 1993
Summary
Human height has increased due to socioeconomic factors, but ancient hominids and past populations were as tall as modern humans. Optimal growth conditions may have existed before modern civilization.
Area of Science:
- Paleoanthropology
- Human biology
- Socioeconomic factors
Background:
- Modern populations exhibit increased stature compared to 150-200 years ago.
- This secular trend is often attributed to improved socioeconomic conditions and public health.
Observation:
- Fossil hominid remains indicate heights within the modern range over the last million years.
- Archaeological data from recent prehistory and the last 2,000 years show comparable adult heights in many populations.
Findings:
- Optimal conditions for human growth may have occurred prior to modern civilization.
- Evidence suggests that peak human height potential was reached in earlier periods.
Implications:
- Re-evaluation of the drivers of human stature is necessary.
- Understanding historical growth patterns can inform current health and nutrition strategies.