Determination of sex using demarking points of the calf and skinfold thickness among Bauchi State students in University of Maiduguri, Nigeria

Abstract

The aim of the study was to estimate sex using demarking points and index of sexual dimorphism of the calf and skinfold thickness among Bauchi State students in University of Maiduguri, Nigeria. The study was carried out using 194 subjects (100 males and 94 females) with  age ranged from 18 to 39 and 18 to 35 years  respectively with no structural deformity or fracture. The following parameters were measured (standing height, weight, calf height, upper one-third calf circumference, medial and lateral calf skinfolds). The results showed that standing height, weight, calf height, upper one-third calf circumference, medial and lateral calf skinfolds in males were 1.70m, 62.08kg, 43.68cm, 32.15cm, 4.70mm and 6.15mm respectively, while female counterparts had 1.58m, 60.22kg, 35.98cm, 35.23cm, 10.33mm and 13.46mm respectively. There were significant differences between males and females standing height, calf height, upper one-third calf circumference, medial and lateral calf skinfolds (p < 0.05) but no significant differences in weight (p > 0.05). Index for sexual dimorphism and demarking point were calculated and all the parameters were observed to be sexually dimorphic. In conclusion, males have higher values for height and weight, while the females have higher values for the calf height, upper one-third calf circumference, medial and lateral calf skinfolds.