Distribution and sexual dimorphism of palm print variable (Palm creases) among Hausa of Kano and Zaria, Nigeria

Abstract

Dermatoglyphic features due to its permanency, genetic influence as well as number of easily observable and measurable characters may be considered one of the most suitable parameters for population variability and have been used extensively to characterize and differentiate human populations, hence, are highly suitable for studying population variation. The aim of the study is to analyze palm prints (palm creases) among Hausas of Kano and Zaria. A total of 600 subjects comprising of 300 participants from two original Hausa metropolis (Kano and Zaria) with 1:1 male to female ratio participated. Ink method was used to capture palm prints. Chi-square was used to determine the association between the variables. The frequency distribution of palmer creases showed that in the right hand only normal creases tend to occur higher in female (203 vs 172) the two metropolis combined. Similar pattern occurs, when the two metropolis were considered separately (Kano = 97 vs 75, Zaria = 106 vs 97). The same pattern of frequency distribution of palmer creases was observed in the left hand. A statistically significant gender differences (χ² = -2.91, P = 0.004 for right hand, and χ² = -3.89, P < 0.001 for left hand) in the frequency distribution of type of palmer creases were noticed among the Hausa ethnic groups (both Kano and Zaria combined). However, when the two Hausa metropolis were separated, differences (χ² = -2.71, P = 0.007 for right hand, and χ² = -4.66, P < 0.001 for left hand) were only noticed among the Hausas of Kano metropolis.

Key words: Palm prints, palm creases, Hausa, Kano, Zaria, Nigeria