A Cross-Sectional Study to Determine Sex from Hand Dimensions in Gujarati Population

Abstract

Introduction: The hand dimensions can be used as a basis for determination of sex in cases where only fragmentary or mutilated remains of an unknown person are recovered. Aim: To determine sex from hand dimensions in living subjects of Gujarati population. Materials and Methods: The present study was conducted at Department of Anatomy, GMERS Medical College Gandhinagar, Gujarat, India, on 250 students (125 males and 125 females) aged between 18-22 years, belonging to Gujarat Region. Hand length and hand breadth were measured using digital vernier caliper and hand dimensions were measured separately for right and left hand. Statistical analysis was done using Epi Info version 7 software. Statistical analysis of data was done in relation with gender. Results: Statistically significant difference was found between males and females for right hand index, left hand length and left hand index (p<0.05). The dimensions of hand length were more on left side than on right side in both sexes while the dimensions of hand breadth and hand index were more on right side than on left side in both sexes. The dimensions were larger in males than in females. Among hand dimensions, hand breadth was found to be the best indicator. Conclusion: Hand breadth and hand length can be used with fair accuracy in identifying sex in medicolegal investigations. These measurements can be used particularly for Gujarati population.

Keywords

• hand measurements
• hand index
• sex determination