Evaluation of Anthropometric Status of Hausas of Northern Nigeria

Abstract

Anthropometry is a branch of anthropology that deals with the measurements of various parts of human body which are expected to grow predictably and proportionately. The aim of this work was to study some of the anthropometric parameters of the Hausa people residing in Kano, northwestern Nigeria. Anthropometric parameters measured and recorded in this study were height, weight, body mass index and blood pressure. The measurements were made according to the standard procedures. Sample size of 1113 subjects comprising of 599 (53.8%) males and 504 (46.2%) females were used for the study. The age range of the subjects was 18 to 60 years with mean age of 23.2 years. Instruments used included weighing machine, stadiometer, and blood pressure apparatus. The results showed that all values were higher in males than females except for body mass index which was higher in female subjects. Bivariate analysis showed a positive correlation between the parameters except for height and body mass index where a negative correlation was observed. The values of the anthropometric parameters in this study were similar to those of other Nigerian ethnic groups and tribes. The values also correlate with the findings from other countries. It is concluded from the findings of this study that the anthropometric parameters and blood pressure of the Hausas of northern Nigeria are within acceptable reference range.

Keywords: Anthropometry, parameters, Hausas, Nigeria